Norco College welcomed a group of bright young minds to campus from July 7–10 for College for Kids, a free summer program designed to introduce 5th and 6th graders to college life and spark curiosity about their communities and the world around them. Jocelyn Yow, a Norco College alumna and former Eastvale mayor, led hands-on activities about local and state government, encouraging students to think critically about civic issues.
“We hosted mock legislative sessions, and they came up with some amazing policy ideas,” Yow shared. “Ideas like banning the sale of makeup products to children under 14, installing alcohol detectors in every car to prevent DUIs, and providing temporary financial support for individuals experiencing homelessness. Their thoughtfulness and passion were inspiring, and I know our country will be in good hands with this next generation of leaders."
Christine Seeger, Associate Faculty in Geography, helped students uncover the physical forces that shape our planet and explore how geography connects to their daily lives and communities.
The program also included a field trip to Corona City Hall, where students met Mayor Jim Steiner and received a guided tour of the facility. Highlights included the Traffic Management Office, where engineers demonstrated how they monitor and manage traffic flow during major city events. Students were especially fascinated by how traffic light cameras help maintain efficient traffic throughout Corona.
On the final day, students wrote postcards to their city councilmembers and school board members to share their policy ideas. They also called the offices of State Senator Sabrina Cervantes and Assemblymember Leticia Castillo, presenting their proposals. Remarkably, the office of Assemblymember Castillo is now exploring the possibility of introducing a bill to ban the sale of makeup products for children under 14.
College for Kids continues to help young learners see themselves as future college graduates and community changemakers.