Dowagiac Union School District

The District, which encompasses 170 square miles, has a K-12 enrollment of 2,713. It also offers alternative education, pre-school classes and dual-enrollment programs that allow students to earn both high school and college credit. A newly constructed, state-of-the-art Gr. 7-8 middle school opened in 2005.

Dowagiac Union Schools reflects the diverse community it serves. The district is large enough to provide numerous educational opportunities, yet small enough to offer students the individual attention they deserve. The District employs 162 full-time certified staff, 91 of which have a Masters degree. The average number of years of teaching experience is 15 years.

Dowagiac Union Schools consistently achieves state-mandated AYP based on student test results. All buildings have received North Central Accreditation. The District is also actively engaged in a Strategic Plan which includes community members.

For more information on the Dowagiac Union School District call (269) 782-4400 or visit them at www.dowagiacschools.org.

Southwestern Michigan College

Southwestern Michigan College (SMC) is a state-of-the-art two-year community college. With campuses in Dowagiac and Niles, SMC offers a wide range of program choices in excellent facilities with superior instructors. SMC offers certificate programs, specialized training opportunities, and associate degrees.

It has also partnered with Ferris State University, Western Michigan University, and Bethel College to offer several bachelor's degree programs. These programs allow students to complete four-year degrees while attending classes at the Dowagiac campus.

Through its state of the art M-Tech center at the Niles campus, SMC is able to offer customized training to meet the needs of local employers for their employees.

For more information on Southwestern Michigan College call (269) 782-1000 or visit them on the web at www.swmich.edu.