(July 14, 2025) MARYSVILLE, Calif. – The Yuba County Office of Education (YCOE) and Yuba College are thrilled to announce a significant milestone in their ongoing partnership. This collaboration has been instrumental in not only providing access to college coursework but also in uncovering the deeper challenges that young people face as they transition back into the community.
Nearly a year ago, YCOE and Yuba College launched a partnership under a College and Career Access Pathways agreement (CCAP) program, which brought in-person college courses directly into the Youth Development Center (formerly known as juvenile hall). Through this effort, more than 20 students were able to earn college credit while still completing high school, an incredible milestone for many who had previously faced significant barriers to higher education.
Recognizing the need for expanded services, YCOE and Yuba College applied for and were awarded a three-year, $937,500 grant through California’s Juvenile Justice grant program. While the original application was submitted under the Rising Scholars program, Yuba College and its partners received confirmation of this new funding on July 7, 2025.
Yuba County Superintendent of Schools, Rob Gregor, shared his enthusiasm for the initiative, saying, “This grant represents a transformative opportunity for our students. Our commitment is to ensure every student feels supported and confident as they embark on their college journey.” He added that the funding “will enhance our support efforts, helping youth make the critical transition from facility-based education to on-campus college life.” Gregor said the goal is “to ensure a warm hand-off, personally connecting students with Yuba College staff and campus resources to build relationships, foster confidence, and ease their reentry into the college environment.” He emphasized that “this grant represents more than just funding. It’s an investment in the potential of our youth. Together, YCOE and Yuba College are breaking down barriers and creating pathways for justice-impacted students to thrive in their college journey and beyond.”
Yuba College Director of Dual Enrollment Dr. Jen Cassel added, “Yuba College is committed to building a comprehensive system that expands access to college courses for justice-impacted students. This grant provides a critical opportunity to innovate, collaborate with community partners, and develop the infrastructure needed to support that effort. The support services made possible through this funding are essential to helping students succeed. This grant will allow us to expand course offerings, increase student persistence, and create clear pathways from college to career.”
Media Contacts:
Yuba County Office of Education
Amy Nore | amy.nore@yubacoe.k12.ca.us
(530) 370-1980
Yuba College
Dr. Jennifer Cassel | jcassel@yccd.edu
(209) 969-6778
About Yuba College
Yuba College is committed to providing equitable student learning and success. We offer degree and certificate programs leading to career and transfer opportunities for our diverse communities. It is our vision to provide innovative and student-centered educational opportunities and services that are equitable and that empower students to become transformative and productive members of our communities.