2026 Spring Semester

The Norco College Upward Bound Classic and Upward Bound Math-Science programs proudly served 128 Norte Vista High School students this academic year. It has been a busy and exciting year filled with academic growth, leadership opportunities, and memorable experiences for our scholars.

We are especially proud of our Upward Bound Seniors, who were admitted to amazing universities and are preparing to begin an exciting new chapter this fall as first-generation college students.

Be sure to check out our newsletter to read all about our spring adventures and see where our seniors are headed this fall. We wish everyone a wonderful summer and look forward to our Upward Bound Summer Program beginning Wednesday, June 17th. Congratulations to all of our students, and remember - TRIO WORKS!

It feels like just yesterday these students were incoming freshmen interviewing for the Upward Bound program with dreams of attending college. Four years later, we proudly celebrated Graduation Day and the incredible journey that brought them to this milestone.

Throughout high school, our seniors demonstrated resilience, determination, and a strong commitment to their goals. From late nights studying to balancing rigorous coursework and extracurricular activities, they have truly earned this moment. As they prepare to begin their college journeys this fall, we celebrate not only their accomplishments, but also the bright futures ahead of them. Congratulations, seniors—we cannot wait to see all that you achieve!

On May 11, 2026, we hosted our annual Awards Ceremony and Senior Graduation, honoring Upward Bound students from Centennial, Corona, and Norte Vista High Schools.

A total of 63 seniors were recognized for successfully completing high school and preparing to enroll in postsecondary institutions in Fall 2026, including UC Berkeley, UCLA, UC Davis, Cal Poly Pomona, CSU Fullerton, and Riverside City College.

Norco College President Dr. Monica Green, Ed.D., spoke about the power of perseverance, community support, and education in shaping student success, especially for first-generation college-bound students who have overcome barriers while building confidence through Upward Bound.

Students received recognition certificates from Congressman Ken Calvert, Congressman Mark Takano, Assemblymember Leticia Castillo, and Assemblymember Natasha Johnson. Additionally, Upward Bound Clubs awarded 12 scholarships across program sites, totaling $300 per award. Lindsey Santana Espinoza and Danica Tiongson were the scholarship recipients for NVHS UB Club. Congratulations!

UB seniors participated in Senior Signing Day, celebrating their post-secondary plans and exciting next steps after high school. Students connected with peers attending the same colleges, building early bonds with future classmates.

Upward Bound was proudly represented at institutions such as UC Berkeley, UCLA, UC Santa Cruz and Chico State University, as students officially committed to their college journeys and celebrated this important milestone.

Upward Bound Coordinators attended Senior Awards Night to celebrate graduating seniors and their achievements. UB students were recognized for their successful completion of the program and received certificates honoring their dedication, growth, and commitment throughout their Upward Bound experience.

Most of our seniors have participated in Upward Bound for all four years of high school, making this recognition especially meaningful as they prepare for graduation and beyond.

Our Upward Bound Club hosted a special Senior Farewell to celebrate and honor our graduating seniors. Underclassmen worked together to create personalized gift baskets for each senior as a meaningful token of appreciation and recognition for their contributions to the program.

The evening included a family-style dinner, laughter, and heartfelt moments as students shared their favorite Upward Bound memories during a celebratory toast. It was a wonderful way to recognize the lasting friendships, growth, and experiences built throughout their Upward Bound journey.

UB students gathered after school for a hands-on 3D Printing Workshop led by a professional in the field. Students learned the basics of 3D printing technology and processes, then collaborated to practice their new skills by creating and printing a shared design. This interactive session provided students with exposure to emerging technology and practical STEM applications.

During spring break, 40 Norco College Upward Bound scholars from our three partner high schools participated in a four-day college tour across Northern California. Students visited seven universities, including Sacramento State, San Jose State, UC Berkeley, UC Davis, UC Merced, and Stanford University, gaining firsthand exposure to a variety of campus environments. The group also visited the Monterey Bay Aquarium and the California State Capitol building.

Throughout the tour, students took part in campus tours, admissions presentations, and Q&A panels with current undergraduate students. They explored campus resource centers, learned about support programs, and experienced dining hall life. On the final day, students attended a keynote presentation at UC Berkeley that encouraged them to set ambitious goals and invest in their futures.

The experience provided Norco College Upward Bound scholars with valuable insight into college life, helping to build confidence, expand perspective, and strengthen their path toward higher education.

Our seniors arrived dressed professionally and prepared to participate in Senior Seminar, focused on mock interviews and career readiness. Students brought finalized resumes and engaged in structured interview sessions designed to strengthen their communication and professionalism skills.

This hands-on experience gave students the opportunity to practice real-world interview techniques, build confidence, and prepare for future college, scholarship, and career opportunities.

In February, we hosted three Junior Seminars to begin preparing our Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math-Science juniors for their senior year and the college application process. Students explored the differences between UC, CSU, and community college systems, learned how to choose a major, and discussed what to consider when identifying a college that best fits their goals and needs.

The seminar concluded with a Personal Insight Questions workshop, where students received guidance and strategies for writing strong, thoughtful responses. We are excited by the progress our juniors are making and look forward to supporting them as they prepare for their senior year and beyond.

During Norte Vista High School’s Open House for incoming freshmen (Class of 2030), students learned about the wide range of academic programs and extracurricular opportunities available on campus.

Our Upward Bound students did an outstanding job representing the program, sharing information about the services we provide to support students on their path to college. Their efforts generated strong interest in Upward Bound, resulting in over 30 new applications. We are excited to welcome future scholars and look forward to the upcoming academic year!

Norco College Upward Bound hosted a transformative Saturday Academy featuring guest speakers from the Freedom Writers Foundation, made possible through a grant awarded by County Supervisor Spiegel’s office.

More than 130 Upward Bound students participated in an extended, high-impact workshop led by renowned educator and author Erin Gruwell, alongside original Freedom Writers Tony Becerra and Shanita Jones. The interactive session immersed students in powerful activities, including the Line Game and the Toast for Change, fostering honest reflection, empathy, and connection.

Through storytelling and shared dialogue, students explored their personal journeys, built meaningful relationships with their peers, and reflected on their academic and life goals. The experience reinforced the importance of voice, resilience, and self-expression, core values shared by both Upward Bound and the Freedom Writers Foundation.

Each student received a signed copy of The Freedom Writers Diary along with an Upward Bound journal, serving as a lasting reminder that their stories matter and that their lived experiences are sources of strength and possibility. The workshop left students feeling inspired, affirmed, and empowered to envision their futures with confidence and purpose.

Norco College Upward Bound is currently recruiting incoming 9th and 10th grade students who are attending Norte Vista HS! Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to join our program and start preparing for your college journey.

Submit your application as soon as possible, and our UB staff will follow up with you soon. We can’t wait to welcome more amazing scholars to our program! 🎓✨

Follow our communication outlets to stay up to date with upcoming events and news regarding the program and academics to help you on your journey towards higher education.