First Star Academy is a long-term college-prep program for high school students in foster care that includes immersive residential summers on a university campus and monthly sessions during each school year. We keep our scholars on track for high school graduation and prepare them for higher education and adulthood by providing specialized programming that addresses the academics, life skills, and adult support needed by students in foster care. Our innovation lies in our holistic model embedded within a university community and responsiveness to the unique needs of youth in foster care. Programming and support is built on the following pillars:
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Academic Support: Students will have the opportunity to develop foundational skills needed to excel in school by participating in workshops, group activities, and project-based learning that is rooted in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math (S.T.E.A.M.)
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Mentorship: Students will develop a network of supportive adults that includes Student Success Coaches, who are current college students with lived experience in foster care and/or other adverse childhood experiences. Additionally, students will have several opportunities to network with college students, staff, faculty and campus resources.
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College Readiness: Students will receive academic advising and advocacy, as well as individual support for college admissions, financial aid and scholarships. Furthermore, students will be immersed in the college-going experience through monthly sessions at CSUSB, summer residential programs, and field trips to other campuses.
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Career Readiness: Students will have the opportunity to build leadership skills, strengthen resumes and interviewing skills, and network with local employers who are part of the First Star network.
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Life Skills Development: Students will participate in activities and workshops to build interpersonal skills, financial literacy, Social Emotional Learning, and other skills needed to be successful in adulthood.
Saturday Academy
First Star Academy provides academic support, mentorship, and workshops for college/career readiness from 9th-12th grade. You will receive these support services by coming to CSUSB for Saturday Academy once a month. The best part of the program is Summer Academy when you stay at the CSUSB campus and get a full college-going experience!
Saturday Academy Dates for 2024/25 Academic Year:
Time: 9:00am-2:00 pm
2024: October 12, November 16
2025: January 11, February 8, March 8, April 5, May 3