​(Orange, CA) - Santiago Canyon College (SCC) is taking the next step in inclusivity with the official launch of the college’s Project RISE program, catering to the educational needs of previously incarcerated students.

Over the past two years, SCC has served students in the Orange County jails through counseling and noncredit courses. Because of the increasing interest and motivation among these students to continue their education post-release, with many desiring to reintegrate themselves within their communities by obtaining marketable skills and attaining personal growth, SCC has developed the Project RISE program.

Project RISE assists formerly incarcerated students in continuing their education by removing barriers to enrollment and attendance through addressing their academic, personal and social challenges. Students are encouraged to pursue their educational goals in a welcoming and supportive environment that caters to their unique needs.

“As a college institution that serves all students, we need to be ready to provide the support and resources to serve formerly incarcerated students in rebuilding their lives and becoming productive members in their families and community,” said SCC counselor Rosalba Hernandez.

Offered through SCC’s Division of Continuing Education, Project RISE is designed to provide the knowledge and resources needed for these students to successfully complete their educational journey. To participate, students must be at least 18 years old and formerly incarcerated. Students will receive educational, personal and career counseling. Additionally, they will be eligible to receive a student ID, personalized assistance with college credit enrollment and services, access to tailored workshops and events, guidance on applying for financial aid and tuition waivers for college credit classes, assistance with job readiness and access to the following community resources: childcare, clothing, food, health, housing and legal. Students enrolling in and attending a minimum of 12 hours per week may be eligible for a free OCTA bus pass and veterans will receive additional support through the SCC Veterans Service Office (VSO).

Interested students must schedule an appointment with a counselor by calling (714) 628-5904 before enrolling in SCC’s free short-term Career Technical Training Certificates (CTE), GED/HiSET classes, academic skills courses, adult high school diploma program or English as a Second Language (ESL) classes.

About Santiago Canyon College
Santiago Canyon College (SCC) serves more than 17,000 credit and noncredit students each semester. In 2017, SCC was ranked #13 among the 50 Best Community Colleges in the U.S. by College Choice, a leading authority in college and university rankings and resources. The college prepares students for transfer to four-year institutions and careers, and provides courses for personal and professional development, as well as customized training for business and industry. The college is recognized for its adult education program which keeps the working adult - and senior - in mind by offering flexible schedules, and community locations. Serving the residents of Anaheim Hills, Orange, Tustin, and Villa Park, SCC is one of two comprehensive colleges under the auspices of the Rancho Santiago Community College District.

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