By Deborah Robbins, Roane State staff writer
Roane State has a new director of Middle College based at the college’s flagship campus in Roane County.
Jonathan Schoolcraft has been immersed in education for nearly 15 years, having recently taught math and AVID elective courses at Oak Ridge High School. Schoolcraft said when he heard about the job opening, it spoke to him.
“As an educator, my biggest passion is working with and counseling students about college opportunities, financial aid, and the whole process of college admissions,” Schoolcraft shared. “I was drawn to this role because of the chance to work with multiple high schools throughout our area and the positive impact Roane State has had on our community and region.”
Roane State’s Middle College program allows students to earn a college degree while in high school. Students can complete up to 60 hours of college credit, all while preserving their high school experience.
Much of Schoolcraft’s time will be devoted to promoting Middle College, managing student cases and providing advising appointments, planning class schedules, and coordinating financial aid. He was brought onboard in early April and explained how no two days have been alike.
“I have been meeting with counselors in multiple districts and counties, traveling throughout our service region to recruit, held a couple Middle College parent nights, and I’ve been working alongside the Dean of Student Academic Support Services, Dr. Cody Miller,” Schoolcraft said.
He also shared his biggest priorities for the program in supporting current students while simultaneously recruiting and growing the upcoming class. Most importantly, he strongly believes in the power of fostering community relationships.
“I’m a huge believer in students, and I truly believe that when you put students first, everything else will fall into place,” Schoolcraft added. “I want students to know that we are excited to provide this program for them, and that I’m cheering them on every step of the way.”
Schoolcraft graduated from Lincoln Memorial University with a Bachelor of Science in Social Work and later went on to Tennessee Tech to earn a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction with concentrations in secondary education.
He grew up in Claiborne County, Tennessee, and currently resides in Oak Ridge with his wife and three-year-old daughter.
To learn more about Roane State Middle College, visit roanestate.edu/middlecollege.
