Rising Scholars

Welcome, rising scholars!

San José City College is dedicated to serving our students.

At San José City College, the Rising Scholars program supports incarcerated and formerly incarcerated students affected by the criminal justice system. Through our partnership with the Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office, we provide services at the Elmwood Correctional Facility in Milpitas and the Re-entry Center in San Jose.

We are proud to be part of the statewide Rising Scholars Network.


The Rising Scholars Program

The goal of the Rising Scholars program at San José City College is to provide an educational pathway to success for incarcerated, formerly incarcerated, and justice-involved students. Our program helps students earn degrees, credentials, and certificates. San José City College offers a safe and supportive environment where students can thrive by networking, accessing campus resources, and developing the skills and training needed for high-paying and rewarding careers.

"Our mission is to serve our entire community with education and opportunity regardless of where our students live. By working with Santa Clara County and the Rising Scholars Network, we can provide academic pathways to students striving for a new beginning."
- Dr. Rowena M. Tomaneng, SJCC President

Operating Locations
  • On-campus at San José City College
  • Re-Entry Resource Center, San José
  • Elmwood Correctional Complex
  • Osborne Juvenile Center
Programs Offered
  • Google IT Support Professional Certificate of Achievement
  • Emerging Tech Entrepreneurship Certificate of Achievement
  • Alcohol and Drug Studies Certificate of Achievement (Level 2)
  • PG&E PowerPathway Entry to Traffic Control Program
Support Services
  • Loaner program for laptops, textbooks, and hot spots
  • Tutoring (as available)
  • Career workshops

Department Contacts

  • Rising Scholars Coordinator
  • Vacant

  • Must identify as formerly incarcerated or system-impacted
  • Complete the Rising Scholars Interest Form
  • Schedule an appointment with a Rising Scholars counselor
  • Register as a California Community College student
  • Enroll in at least one credit or non-credit course at San José City College

  • Academic Calendar and Deadlines Visit Page
  • Basic Needs Center Visit Page
  • Food Resources (Jaguar Market and Food Distribution) Visit Page
  • Mental Health Resources Visit Page
  • Student Parent Services and Resources Visit Page
  • Connections to On-campus Resources (Support Programs: CALWORKS, CARE, EOPS, VETERANS and more) Visit Page
  • Referrals to Community Services at SJSU (Expungement program, The Access Project, etc.)

Scholarship Workshop
Click here for Workshop updates!

Free Food Distribution
Click here for updated information.