Early College Warriors Program
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Students, families, and educational partners gathered on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at Allan Hancock College to celebrate the launch of the Early College Warriors program, a partnership designed to expand college access and accelerate student achievement.
Thirty-nine current junior high students completed a competitive application and interview process and have been selected as the inaugural cohort of Early College Warriors at Righetti High School for the upcoming school year.
“The Early College Warriors program will provide high school students the opportunity to complete their Cal-GETC (California General Education Transfer Curriculum) requirements while they complete their high school classes. By the time these students graduate high school, they will be well-prepared to attend a California public university, having already completed their general education requirements, saving them both time and costs,” said Victoria Lopez, High School Liaison.
The orientation event welcomed incoming students and their families to the Allan Hancock College campus, offering an introduction to the program and the college experience. Students participated in a campus tour and received their Allan Hancock student IDs.
“I am excited to challenge myself academically and get a head start on my future education. Taking these college-level courses will help build my study habits. I want to explore different subject areas related to my career goal of becoming a clinical psychologist,” said Catalaya Morales, an eighth-grade student from Lakeview Junior High.
Another student, Nathaniel Avila, an eighth-grade student from Guadalupe Junior High, emphasized the program’s impact on long-term goals and family aspirations. “I want to head to the university right away. I do not want to waste time. I want to make my parents proud, and I will be the first in my family to attend a university. I want to have a good career and help my parents with my special needs younger sister,” Avila said.
The Early College Warriors program reflects a shared commitment to college and career readiness and serves as a model for removing barriers and expanding opportunities for all students.
Media Contact: SMJUHSD Public Information Officer Kenny Klein