MESA SCHOOLS PROGRAM – OUTREACH (PRE-COLLEGE)

The MESA Schools Program (MSP) provides academic development for pre-college students so they will succeed in math and science and go on to attain baccalaureate degrees in math-based majors. The MSP in Sonoma County serves middle and senior high school students and is administered through the Santa Rosa Junior College. The MESA Schools Program and the MESA Community College Program are closely aligned to assure a more streamlined system of services, helping high school students ease into the college experience. The MSP perpetuates a college-going culture within the schools it serves.

MESA SCHOOLS PROGRAM COMPONENTS – WHAT MSP OFFERS MIDDLE AND SENIOR HIGH STUDENTS

The following list includes the main components of SRJC’s MESA Schools Program that are geared for our students’ success:

Study Skills Training
Students learn the most effective study techniques for academic achievement, including the best practices for both individual and study groups.

MESA Day Activities
Hands-on math and science competitions at local, regional, state and even national levels give students a chance to meet like-minded students and compete for awards.

Individual Academic Plans
These plans help teachers and school counselors to monitor individual student progress.

Career and College Exploration
Guest speakers and field trips expose students to different college and career opportunities.

Connections to Industry
Industry representatives sit on the MESA Advisory Board, share career opportunities with students during classroom visits, and offer field trips and internships.

Special Programs Focusing on Math and Science
Using Lego Robotics kits in middle school and VEX Robotics kits in senior high school, students learn to design, program and build robots and take part in competitions. This hands-on activity combines math, science, physics and computer skills.

A Bridge to Santa Rosa Junior College and Other Colleges
Students who join the MSP in high school can continue with the SRJC MESA Program upon graduation. Other colleges that offer the MESA Program include Chico, San Jose State, Sacramento State, San Francisco and San Diego State Universities, UC Santa Cruz and UC Santa Barbara, and many private institutions.

For additional information on the MESA Schools Program, contact Bess Eiermann, MESA Schools Program Coordinator, at 707-521-6940 or beiermann@santarosa.edu.

MESA is a shining example of how educators, from primary to postsecondary, can form partnerships to work toward closing the achievement gap.
Jack O’Connell – 2009
State Superintendent of Public Instruction
To Commemorate the 40th Anniversary of MESA