Rising Scholars Program
Overview
Cerro Coso Community College's Rising Scholars Program began in 2015, following the passage of Senate Bill 1391. This policy shifted the apportionment for colleges and allowed face-to-face programs to begin inside of prison. This investment by the State of California is a unique approach to a successful partnership for rehabilitation and safer communities.
I was transferred to Cal City prison as a disciplinary action [18 months earlier]. When I arrived here, there was a buzz around the facility that I have never experience in this environment [i'm a multi-termer]. Everywhere I turned, people were talking about what classes they have, what homework was due, how many units they needed to complete their degree. I found myself on the outside of conversations involving topics like politics, social behavior, psychology, different periods of art, etc. I had to see what this was all about.
After this semester I will have an accumulated 36 units and on track to complete my first degree by this summer or fall. I have a counselor that keeps me accountable with progress reports, makes sure that I have books and supplies, and helps me...set short and long term educational goals. I now plan to transfer to a CSU on release for my Bachelor's.
For the first time in a long time, I don't feel like a “lost cause.” –CAC Student
About the Program
Cerro Coso's Rising Scholars Program (RSP) is currently serving the Tehachapi California Correctional Institution and Owen's Valley Conservation Camp.
We serve approximately 400 students each year, but that number is likely to increase soon due to some changes taking place at the prison over the next few months.
We have now served over 4,000 students and issued over 840 degrees. We also currently offer 9 different degree options.
Rising Scholars Program Presentation
“The Cerro Coso professors here at C.A.C. are exceptionally encouraging and inspirational...they convey a sincere passion and desire to see us succeed as students and as individuals who will re-enter every day society.”
–CAC Student
“Through the opportunity to join societies, like PTK, a sense of confidence grows in being able to live well, with purpose”
–CCI Student
“September 14...was quite an exciting sight. We held tutoring groups and the library was packed to capacity. I made a comment to my class about how awesome it was to see that many people working together to learn. They could have been out on the yard or messing around...watching T.V. or playing cards, but they made the choice to be there.”
Thank you for this opportunity.
–Student/tutor in CCI
Contact Us
For media inquiry guidelines, contact the Public Information Office.
To request information from the Prison Education Program or ask the Cerro Coso team to speak on social justice, please email prisonprogram@cerrocoso.edu.
Phone: (661) 395-4170
If you wish to reach the RSP department directly use this number. This includes currently
incarcerated Cerro Coso students who are calling from their tablets.
- Anna Carlson, Program Director, Rising Scholars Program
- Kristie Nichols, Program Technician, Rising Scholars Program
- Alec Griffin, Professor Anthropology & Sociology; Faculty Coordinator
