The 29 graduates entered the new program in 2001 as successful high school undergraduates who felt under challenged by the traditional high school curriculum. Middle College gave the students opportunities to test themselves against college-level work in classes taught at Grossmont while getting a head start on college requirements.

Grossmont President Dr. Ted Martinez, Jr., congratulated the students on their willingness and ability to attend classes with traditional college students and succeed in taking advantage of a new educational opportunity. Martinez noted that there are some incredible personal success stories, as well as an impressive overall GPA among the Middle College graduates. Also attending the graduation exercises was Dr. Bob Stein, Assistant Superintendent of the Grossmont Union School District.

The students also took high school classes, taught by high school instructors, as part of the Middle College structure. The Grossmont Middle College is the only program of its kind in San Diego County.