The Rising Scholars Program provides educational opportunities and support services to incarcerated students at the California Rehabilitation Center (CRC), formerly incarcerated and justice-impacted students on campus, and to justice-impacted youth at alternative high schools and juvenile detention facilities. Rising Scholars is geared to reduce recidivism rates by preparing students to join the workforce and contribute to the economic health of communities through educational opportunities.

Norco College is proud to be part of 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.

Rising Scholars at the California Rehabilitation Center

Our program at the California Rehabilitation Center serves over 600 students and offers over 140 credit courses on-site each year. More than 215 degrees have been awarded to 180 students since the inception of the program in 2017. Eligible students at the CRC can complete one of the following associate degrees:

• Business Administration, Associate in Science for Transfer (ADT)
• Communication Studies, Associate in Arts for Transfer (ADT)
• Sociology, Associate in Arts for Transfer (ADT)
• Administration & Information Systems, Associate of Arts Degree (AOE)
• Social & Behavioral Studies Emphasis, Associate of Arts Degree (AOE)

Rising Scholars On Campus

On-campus services are available to students who have been impacted by the criminal justice system. These services include, but are not limited to:

• Priority registration and enrollment support
• Support accessing financial aid
• Basic needs support
• Academic counseling and advising
• Tutoring and mentoring
• Instructional materials support
• Referrals of community resources, such as housing assistance, mental health support, or social services
• Career counseling and placement services

Whether you are currently enrolled at Norco College, or thinking about enrolling, contact the Rising Scholars team today to learn more about the programs and services that Norco College has to offer you and your family today!

Rising Scholars Program for Justice Impacted Youth

The Rising Scholars services and programs are also available to justice impacted youth. The services below are specifically tailored to youth attending alternative high school sites or students detained at a juvenile facility. Students who are enrolled in courses at Norco College have access to the resources and services listed above.

• Dual enrollment classes for students working towards their high school diploma or GED
• Online and in-person classes for high school graduates working towards a college certificate or degree
• On site academic counseling and advising
• All instructional materials are provided