Rising Scholars

Welcome to the Rising Scholars Program!

We proudly serve currently and formerly incarcerated students, as well as high school students impacted by the juvenile justice system. Through strong partnerships with Valley State Prison (VSP), Central California Women’s Facility (CCWF), United States Penitentiary, Atwater (USP), and Iris Garrett Juvenile Justice Correctional Complex (JJCC), local high schools, including continuation and alternative school we create meaningful opportunities and clear pathways from incarceration to higher education.

Our mission is to eliminate barriers, empower students to achieve success, and provide support to help every student achieve their academic, and personal goals.

Get Started Today!

For questions or assistance, contact 209-384-6399

Complete the Interest/Referral Form
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  • Currently Incarcerated

    Those who are incarcerated at Valley State Prison, Central California Women’s Facility, United States Penitentiary-Atwater.

    Currently Incarcerated

  • Formerly Incarcerated

    The College offers support to justice-impacted students through our Rising Scholars program.

    Formerly Incarcerated Students

Eligibility

  1. Justice-impacted individuals, including:
    • Those formerly incarcerated in a California correctional facility (e.g., prison or jail)
    • Those considered Juvenile Justice-Impacted High School Student, such as individuals arrested, detained, or referred to probation as a youth
  2. Currently enrolled in a for-credit course or a noncredit course that is part of a certificated program

Services for Rising Scholars Participants

  • Academic counseling with a counselor who has experience working with justice-impacted students
  • Referral to campus and community resources
  • Computer access, a study area, and free printing
  • Loaner laptops (while supplies last)
  • Transportation and meal assistance (while supplies last)
  • Purchase assistance for textbooks and class supplies
  • Skills building workshops, activities and events, and campus tours
  • Peer Support
  • A Rising Scholars Program stole for participant graduates

Meet the Counselors

Kyle Connery

Hello, my name is Kyle Connery, I’m one of the counselors in the Rising Scholars department. I’ve been a counselor for just about 10 years. I received my B.A. In Psychology, as well as my M.S. In Student Affairs and College Counseling from California State University, Fresno, and I also have a P.P.S. Credential. When I’m not working, I enjoy traveling, going to concerts, biking and hiking (anything active!). I look forward to helping you achieve your academic goals!

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