Cuesta College's Rising Scholars Program: Transforming Lives Through Education for Incarcerated Students at California Men's Colony

Cuesta College's Rising Scholars program has been serving incarcerated community college students at the California Men's Colony (CMC) since 2015. This innovative initiative provides educational opportunities to individuals who are committed to personal growth and academic achievement despite their circumstances.

Through Rising Scholars, students at CMC can pursue Associate Degrees in Sociology and Human Services, opening doors to future career prospects and facilitating rehabilitation. The program offers comprehensive face-to-face instruction, ensuring students receive a quality community college education experience within the prison environment.

The selection process for Rising Scholars is rigorous, designed to identify candidates who demonstrate a genuine dedication to their studies and personal development. This careful screening ensures that participants are prepared to make the most of the educational resources provided, maximizing the program's impact on individual lives and the broader community.

Overview of Rising Scholars at Cuesta College

Cuesta College's Rising Scholars program offers incarcerated students at the California Men's Colony (CMC) the opportunity to pursue higher education. The program provides academic resources and degree pathways to support rehabilitation and personal growth.

History and Mission

Rising Scholars at Cuesta College began in Fall 2015 with the goal of providing quality education to incarcerated individuals. Since its inception, the program has awarded 355 Associate in Arts (AA) degrees to students at CMC.

The mission focuses on offering comprehensive face-to-face community college experiences to all students at the CMC satellite campus. This approach aims to facilitate personal development and increase opportunities for successful reintegration into society upon release.

Rising Scholars offers two primary degree pathways:

• Sociology Associate Degree for Transfer

• Associate in Arts in Human Services

These degrees equip students with knowledge in social sciences and community work, laying a foundation for future academic pursuits or career opportunities.

Support Through California Promise Grant

The Rising Scholars program receives crucial funding through the California Promise Grant. This financial support enables Cuesta College to provide essential academic resources and services to incarcerated students at CMC.

The grant helps cover various program expenses, including:

• Instructional materials

• Technology resources

• Faculty support

• Administrative costs

For the 2022-2023 academic year, the program received a budget of $444,000 from the California Community Colleges Chancellor's Office. This funding ensures that Rising Scholars can continue offering quality education and support services to incarcerated students, helping them work towards their educational and career goals despite their confinement.

Educational Opportunities at CMC

The Rising Scholars program at CMC offers inmates valuable educational pathways and opportunities for personal growth. Students can pursue associate degrees that align with their interests and future goals, while developing skills crucial for successful reintegration into society.

Associate Degree Pathways Offered

CMC students have access to two primary degree options through the Rising Scholars program. The Sociology Associate Degree for Transfer provides a foundation in social sciences, preparing students for further studies or careers in related fields.

The Associate in Arts Degree in Human Services equips students with knowledge and skills for community-oriented work. Both pathways offer a structured curriculum that encourages critical thinking and personal development.

Since 2015, the program has awarded 355 Associate in Arts (AA) degrees to Cuesta students at CMC. This impressive number highlights the program's success in providing meaningful educational opportunities to incarcerated individuals.

Rehabilitation and Reintegration Goals

The Rising Scholars program aims to support rehabilitation efforts and prepare inmates for successful reintegration upon release. By pursuing higher education, participants gain valuable knowledge, improve their critical thinking skills, and enhance their employability.

The program's focus on sociology and human services aligns with rehabilitation goals, fostering empathy, social understanding, and community engagement. These skills are crucial for personal growth and successful reintegration into society.

Educational achievements can boost inmates' self-esteem and provide a sense of purpose. The program's structure and academic rigor help develop discipline and time management skills, which are essential for future success in both personal and professional spheres.

Admission and Selection Process

The Rising Scholars program at Cuesta College employs a rigorous selection process to identify committed candidates. This approach ensures that participants are ready to embrace the academic challenges and personal growth opportunities offered.

Criteria for Prospective Students

Prospective students must demonstrate a genuine interest in education and self-improvement. The program evaluates candidates based on their academic potential, motivation, and readiness to engage in college-level coursework.

Applicants are required to have a high school diploma or equivalent. They should also show a clear understanding of the program's expectations and demands.

Candidates are assessed on their ability to manage time effectively and balance their studies with other responsibilities within the correctional facility. Good conduct records and a positive attitude towards rehabilitation are highly valued.

Participant Experience: Jovan McClenton

Jovan McClenton, a Rising Scholars participant, underwent the program's interview process firsthand. His experience highlights the depth and thoroughness of the selection procedure.

During the interview, McClenton was asked about his educational goals, motivation for joining the program, and long-term aspirations. He described the process as challenging yet fair, emphasizing how it helped him reflect on his commitment to education.

McClenton noted that the interview also served as an opportunity to learn more about the program's structure and expectations. This two-way communication ensured that he was fully prepared for the academic journey ahead.

Academic Resources and Student Support

The Rising Scholars program at Cuesta College provides comprehensive academic resources and support to incarcerated students at the California Men's Colony. These services are designed to help students succeed in their educational pursuits despite the challenges of their environment.

Students have access to face-to-face community college education experiences, mirroring the quality of instruction available on Cuesta's main campus. This approach ensures that incarcerated learners receive the same level of education as their non-incarcerated peers.

The program offers various support services, including:

• Academic advising

• Tutoring

• Library resources

• Computer labs for coursework

These resources help students navigate their chosen degree pathways effectively. The Sociology Associate Degree for Transfer and Associate in Arts in Human Services are popular options among participants.

Since its inception in 2015, the Rising Scholars program has made significant strides. The program has awarded 355 Associate in Arts degrees to students at CMC, demonstrating its impact on incarcerated individuals' educational achievements.

The program also focuses on preparing students for life after incarceration. It provides opportunities for students to develop skills that will aid in their reintegration into society and pursuit of further education or career goals upon release.

Outcomes and Impact

The Rising Scholars program at Cuesta College has yielded significant results for incarcerated students at the California Men's Colony. Participants have gained valuable skills and knowledge, with many achieving remarkable success in their academic pursuits.

Skills Acquired

Students in the Rising Scholars program develop a wide range of academic and personal skills. They enhance their critical thinking abilities through coursework in sociology and human services. Writing and communication skills improve as students complete assignments and engage in class discussions.

Participants also cultivate time management and self-discipline, crucial for balancing study with other prison responsibilities. Cuesta College's Rising Scholars program fosters independence of thought and creative expression, empowering students to think critically about social issues.

Additionally, students gain practical skills relevant to future employment, such as understanding social structures and human behavior. These competencies prepare them for potential careers in social work, counseling, or community services upon release.

Success Stories

The Rising Scholars program has produced numerous success stories, demonstrating its positive impact on participants' lives. In a recent graduation ceremony, 24 Rising Scholars students earned Associate of Arts Degrees, marking a significant milestone in their educational journeys.

Many graduates have reported increased self-confidence and a sense of accomplishment. Some have gone on to pursue further education or secure employment in their chosen fields upon release. The program's success extends beyond academic achievements, with participants often experiencing personal growth and developing a renewed sense of purpose.

These accomplishments not only benefit the individuals but also contribute to reduced recidivism rates. By equipping students with education and skills, Rising Scholars plays a crucial role in facilitating successful reintegration into society.