What is Guardian Scholars?
Guardian Scholars Program was established to support current and former foster youth students achieve their educational goals. The program provides a safe haven for students to obtain information related to education, financial aid, housing, food, and other educational or basic necessities.The combination of support services and dedicated staff contribute to our Guardian Scholars retention and achievement of their educational and personal goals. You may qualify for additional services through the NextUp program.
Guardian Scholars Eligibility Requirements
- Be a current or former foster youth/ward of the court
- Must apply for Guardian Scholars before your 35th birthday
- Must be a California resident
- Must enroll in 12 units/full-time or more with the majority of units at Golden West College (Exception: verified DSPS students)
- Provide proof of Ward of the Court or Dependency Verification form (To obtain the verification, please call the Office of the Ombudsman at 1-877-846-1602)
Guardian Scholars Support Services
- Academic, career, and personal counseling
- Additional textbook services provided
- Burton Book Fund (if qualify)
- Snack/hygiene pantry
- Referrals for housing, transportation, and clothing
Guardian Scholars Student Participation Opportunities
- Educational workshops
- EOPS/CARE/Guardian Scholars club
- Holiday and graduation events
- Volunteer opportunities
Student Commitment to Guardian Scholars
Once students have been accepted into the Guardian Scholars program, their commitment to the program includes:
- Attend four (4) EOPS/Guardian Scholars counseling appointments each semester (Fall & Spring)
- Complete a Guardian Scholars Mutual Responsibility Contract annually
- Enroll in 12 units/full-time or more with majority units at Golden West College (Exception: verified DSPS students and/or as determined by the EOPS program counselor)
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress (Complete 50% of total units attempted annually with a cumulative GPA of at least a 2.0)
If you want to find out more about NextUp/Guardian Scholars programs, send an e-mail to Michael Crane at mcrane9@gwc.cccd.edu.
The EOPS/CARE/NextUp/Guardian Scholars program accepts applications on
an ongoing basis. Apply online NOW or download [PDF] version of the application
