The Jackson River Governor’s School (JRGS) is a regional public program housed on the Mountain Gateway Community College Clifton Forge campus for motivated high school juniors and seniors seeking advanced coursework in science, mathematics, and technology.
Students attend college classes at MGCC in the morning and return to their local high school in the afternoon for humanities courses, athletics, and extracurriculars.
Why Choose JRGS?
- Zero Tuition Cost: Attending JRGS is completely free. Participating school divisions cover all tuition costs and provide students with textbooks, a laptop, and a graphing calculator.
- 41+ Transferable College Credits: Graduates earn a minimum of 41 college credits, allowing many students to enter a four-year university as a sophomore.
- Earn College Credentials in High School:
- Year 1: Earn an MGCC Career Studies Certificate in Science & Mathematics.
- Year 2: Complete requirements for an MGCC Associate of Science (A.S.) Degree by taking just 26 additional credits via dual enrollment or summer courses.
Participating School Divisions
JRGS is a cooperative partnership between MGCC and four public school divisions:
- Alleghany Highlands Public Schools
- Bath County Public Schools
- Botetourt County Public Schools
- Buena Vista City Public Schools
(Note: Homeschooled and private school students must enroll full-time in a participating public high school to apply).
Admissions & Eligibility
Applications are submitted during 10th grade for entry in 11th grade through your high school guidance office.
Qualifications:
- Currently enrolled in 10th grade (or meeting prerequisite coursework).
- Completion of Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, and Biology with a grade of A or B.
- Strong aptitude, intellectual curiosity, and interest in STEM fields.
- Positive teacher and counselor recommendations.
Contact Information
Have questions about the program or application process?
Eddie Graham — JRGS Director
Phone: (540) 863-2872 | Email: egraham@mgcc.edu
Office Location: MGCC Clifton Forge Campus | Backels Hall