The youth and young adults who our Community Safety team supports at a local continuation school closed out the school year by visiting Santa Cruz. While this might seem routine to many, in most cases students attending continuation schools aren’t able to enjoy the traditional high school experiences, such as field trips, homecoming, and senior activities. Program Assistant Monserrat Peralta was introduced to many of the students who attended the trip through our SHOP program, a 6-week program for youth to explore mental wellness, healthy relationships, personal finances, and more. She also facilitates drop-in hours which is a consistent place where students can check in with her regarding their academics and mental wellness and complete their school assignments.
When the school started planning the end of the year field trip, the students requested Monserrat to be a chaperone and celebrate a successful school year with them. “The field trip is a reward for them dedicating themselves to their academics and attendance and focusing on how to pursue their post high school goals, so I was honored to join them” added Peralta Sanchez. She commented that the students didn’t have any of the traditional senior activities like prom and homecoming, so they were extremely excited for the trip.
Once they arrived in Santa Cruz, Monserrat noticed how grateful and appreciative they were for the experience. Many of the youth shared that they had not been to Santa Cruz or an amusement, while others had not traveled beyond the Sacramento region. They were bagging sand and were constantly taking photos and videos to show their family and friends at home. “Their joy and laughter brought me so much joy as well. As they head off to college and work, I know this experience will stay with them” Monserrat said in closing.
HEC is grateful for the partnership with Yolo High School that was established in 2022. We look forward to continuing to support the staff and students who call Yolo High School home.
