Since 2017, our Rising Scholars Program (formerly known as Next Steps/Prison Education Program) has been providing educational opportunities to incarcerated students at the California Rehabilitation Center (CRC) in Norco, CA. We are part of the California Community College Chancellor's Office Rising Scholars Network.

Our program is geared to reduce recidivism rates by preparing students to join the workforce and contribute to the economic health of communities, while reducing unemployment and crime rates. At the CRC, students have an opportunity to pursue an Associate Degree for Transfer in Sociology or Business Administration; or complete an Associates Degree in one of our Area of Emphasis. Our program serves over 300 students and offers over 40 credit courses on-site, per term. More than 130 degrees have been awarded to 73 students.

Starting 2022-23, our program will also start providing on-campus services for students who have been impacted by the criminal justice system.

For more information, contact Tyee Griffith, Associate Dean, Educational Partnerships