Merrill College: Classroom Connection with Pescadero Schools

Classroom Connection began in 1997 as part of the Merrill Honors Program, founded by former college provost John Isbister. Through the years, Classroom Connection Program has evolved into a vital community-oriented program. Classroom Connection is of enormous value to its beneficiaries: the students and teachers of our local public schools, and the UCSC students who have come back year after year for the gratifying experience of working in the classrooms.

The inclusion of Pescadero k-12 schools in the program occurred in the fall of 2013. "Most Pescadero Elementary students will be the first in their families to graduate High School and go to college," says Erica Hays, Principal of Pescadero Elementary. "The younger kids develop close relationships with their college mentors. They start to see themselves going to college like the big kids."

As one UCSC student participant wrote in the course evaluation: "I truly could never have foreseen that in my desperate scramble for some extra college credits, I would have landed myself in a place that will change my life forever . . . a chance to help our grossly under-funded public schools, a bunch of really cool little friends, and a really good feeling inside."

Transportation to and from Pescadero for UCSC students is provided by a UCSC van. The 70 mile round trip translates to considerable transportation bills each quarter. Our goal is to raise $1,500 to help with transportation costs for fall, winter, and spring quarters in the coming academic year.

Your gift ensures Merrill and UCSC students continue to make a "classroom connection" with the students of the Pescadero schools. Whether you fund one visit or a full quarter, your contribution will change lives.