Century High School participated in Bite of Reality for the first time last month, a financial literacy simulation hosted by SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union. The interactive experience placed students in real-life scenarios where they had to budget and make financial decisions based on different life situations.



Students enjoyed navigating realistic choices around expenses and priorities, gaining insight into real-world financial responsibility. Volunteers also appreciated being part of the experience, supporting students and observing how they approached decision-making throughout the simulation.

Bridge to Employment (BTE) Program wrapped up the fall semester with a Holiday Celebration for the Junior and Senior cohorts. Students enjoyed a much-requested Wingstop lunch and spent time participating in holiday games and hands-on STEM activities.

The celebration began with a holiday word scramble, followed by a Christmas tree challenge where students worked in teams to build the tallest tree using gumdrops and toothpicks. Students also took part in a gingerbread house challenge, collaborating to create the most creative designs. Throughout the activities, students practiced teamwork, problem-solving, and communication in a fun and relaxed setting.



All BTE partners were present, creating opportunities to connect with students and share appreciation for their participation and commitment to the program. The celebration marked a strong close to the fall semester and reflected the positive momentum of the 2025–2026 BTE program year.

“I didn’t know what I was getting into when my teacher encouraged me to join, but I’m really glad I did. The experience has been great. I’ve met new students, gone on a cool field trip to J&J, and enjoyed the sessions. I’m thankful for the support from everyone in BTE.” - Student Participant

The following week we held a luncheon with our

Bridge to Employment (BTE) partners: High School Inc., University of California, Irvine (UCI), and Johnson & Johnson gathered for an in person monthly advisory meeting. The meeting provided an opportunity for partners to connect, celebrate a strong start to the 2025–2026 BTE program year, and reflect on the program’s progress.

Partners shared their excitement around student engagement, staying aligned with planned goals, and the continued commitment to working collaboratively to deliver high-quality programming for BTE students.

Healthcare Insurance 101

presented to our Biomedical Science students

Our High School Inc. College and Career Coach Susan Davidson, alongside Sandi Crawford, president of Otium Agency, facilitated a health insurance workshop for Biomedical Science students at Century High School in December.

Students learned essential real‑world skills, including how health insurance works, key terms, how to use an insurance card, when to choose the ER versus urgent care, the differences between HMO and PPO plans, metal tiers and costs, ways to obtain coverage, how subsidies help reduce expenses, and the role of a primary care physician in accessing care. This workshop equipped students with foundational knowledge they will need as they transition into adulthood.

Sony Studios Tour &

“Wheel of Fortune” Live Taping

Our New Media Academy students at Valley High School had an exceptional behind‑the‑scenes experience at Sony Studios, including a live taping of Wheel of Fortune. Thank you to our fantastic New Media instructor Jackie Sherman who connected our students to the Executive Producers. Students received rare VIP access, highlighted by being invited on stage, where Valley High School's name was displayed on the iconic puzzle board.

This visit gave students a firsthand look at the fast‑paced coordination required to produce a major television show supported by a crew of more than 200 professionals. They explored multiple departments including set construction, lighting and grip, camera operations, audio engineering, art direction, wardrobe, and post‑production, gaining insight into the wide range of careers that power the entertainment industry.

Students also learned about the function of soundstages, backlots, production offices, and the importance of scheduling, pre‑production planning, and professionalism on set. Observing a live taping provided a real-time view of audience coordination, stage management, and the roles of producers and show runners.

This extraordinary experience deepened students’ understanding of large‑scale production environments and directly reinforced the skills and concepts we teach in class. It was a memorable and highly impactful learning opportunity.

Our Bio-Med students are getting ready for a busy spring semester in 2026. Students will have the opportunity to visit leading biomedical companies such as Amgen, Edwards Lifesciences, Johnson & Johnson, and Masimo. We are looking forward to these field trips and the opportunities our students will get to partake in.

Thank you for giving our students the opportunity to explore their future careers.

Our E-Business Academy is getting ready for the 2026 Bakersfield Trade Show Competition in February where they will be pitching their businesses with schools from all over California. The winners of this competition will move on to compete with other schools on a national level.

On December 9, Century High School Ambassadors held their monthly lunchtime session ahead of winter break, continuing their leadership development series with Session 3: The Professional You, focused on professionalism and etiquette.

During the session, students reflected on how they present themselves as ambassadors and practiced key professional skills, including dress, body language, communication, reliability, and etiquette. Through interactive games and peer practice, ambassadors checked for understanding and applied what they learned with one another.

Each ambassador continues to build their leadership toolkit using their Ambassador folders, which include session handouts and resources they can reference as they grow in confidence and professionalism throughout the program.

On December 11, Valley High School Ambassadors welcomed students from Diamond Elementary School to showcase why Valley’s CHANGE Academies are such an exciting opportunity. Ambassadors shared what makes the academies unique, the pathways available, and how students can explore their interests through hands-on learning.



During the visit, Diamond Elementary students participated in interactive activities led by the ambassadors, including trying out academy equipment, tasting a fun treat, and receiving student-created stickers. These hands-on experiences gave younger students a glimpse into what learning looks like within the CHANGE Academies.

The visit sparked excitement and curiosity, with Diamond Elementary students leaving inspired by the possibilities of becoming future Valley High School CHANGE Academy students.

From the

MACC Farm

December was a wonderful time to give back to our community and a meaningful way to close out the year. Sharing soup boxes throughout the month reminded us that small acts of kindness can have a big impact, especially during the holiday season. It was inspiring to come together to support our neighbors, spread warmth, and end the year with gratitude, generosity, and a strong sense of community connection. We were able to donate a total of 458 soup boxes to our community. 

Our field trips also wrapped up with powerful learning experiences for our students. Through hands-on activities, students explored regenerative farming practices and gained a deeper understanding of why composting matters for soil health, sustainability, and our environment. These experiences helped connect classroom learning to real-world solutions and empowered students to see how their actions can contribute to a healthier planet. We were able to impact 373 students at the junior high and high school levels during the Fall 2025 quarter. 



Our team also had the opportunity to visit Chapman University to discuss the importance of having an urban farm within a food desert. We highlighted how access to fresh, locally grown food can transform communities and improve health outcomes. This conversation also showcased our unique partnership with High School Inc. that helps advance the MACC's mission of growing food sustainably while educating communities on healthier eating habits, creating lasting impact through collaboration and shared purpose.

Meet Noe!

Noe is a senior in the Global Business Academy who represents his academy and school with pride. He stays involved across campus through school sports, GBA activities, the Ambassador Program, and the Bridge to Employment program, consistently showing up as a leader.

Noe is confident, approachable, and always willing to speak up whether representing student needs, engaging in community spaces, or collaborating with business partners. He communicates professionally, asks thoughtful questions, and takes feedback seriously, earning the trust and respect of both peers and partners.

Younger students look up to Noe for his leadership and easygoing spirit, and his peers see him as someone they can rely on. His ability to lead by example and serve as a positive role model truly sets him apart.



We are proud of Noe and excited to see where his leadership and dedication take him next.

Meet Giselle!

Giselle consistently goes above and beyond in her commitment to leadership and service. She actively ensures that her peers are engaged and participating, and she is often the first to raise her hand to support High School Inc. during business partner events and community engagements. Giselle demonstrates a strong sense of responsibility, initiative, and pride in representing her program and school.



Her willingness to step forward, assist others, and contribute wherever needed reflects her dedication not only to her peers, but also to her teachers, staff, and the broader community. We are grateful for Giselle’s positive attitude, leadership, and continued support, and we sincerely thank her for being a reliable and inspiring presence within High School Inc.

Meet Hector!

Hector Gonzalez, Auto Academy Teacher at Valley High School, is committed to supporting students both in and beyond the classroom. Growing up in Santa Ana himself, Hector understands the realities many students face and is intentional about being a positive force for change.

He works hard to ensure Auto Academy students gain the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need for their future, while also serving as a trusted mentor and safe space for students to talk through challenges. Hector has also taken on a leadership role in the Community Garage program, guiding students as they apply their learning in service to the community.



We are grateful for Hector’s dedication, leadership, and care for his students.

Meet Jeff!

Jeff Rozema serves as Vice Principal of Century High School and is a committed advocate for High School Inc. programs. He consistently seeks strategic opportunities to partner with High School Inc. to elevate community awareness, enhance program visibility, and align business partners with the evolving needs of Century High School.

In addition, Mr. Rozema plays an active role in coordinating school-based events and proactively identifies new avenues for High School Inc. to engage with and support Century High School students.

Thank you Jeff for all that you do!

Meet Jack!

High School Inc. Academies Foundation proudly recognizes Jack E. Oakes for his nearly two decades of extraordinary leadership, vision, and commitment to the success of High School Inc. Since the organization’s founding, Jack has played a pivotal role in shaping its mission, growth, and long-term impact on students, schools, and the broader community.

As a founding member, Jack helped lay the foundation for what High School Inc. has become today, a recognized model for career-connected education and business-school partnerships. Over the years, he has generously served in multiple leadership capacities, including Executive Director, Executive Board Member, and trusted advisor, always stepping in where his experience and guidance were most needed.

Beyond titles and roles, Jack’s greatest contribution has been his steadfast belief in students, particularly in the power of education to open doors, create opportunity, and transform lives.

"Before students can be College and Career Ready, they must be ‘Achievement Ready."

Jack is an award-winning respected education leader and author with decades of experience as a teacher, counselor, administrator, and consultant. Known for his strategic insight and collaborative approach, he brings deep expertise in educational innovation, leadership development, and community engagement. His lifelong dedication to improving outcomes for young people continues to inspire High School Inc.’s board, staff, and partners.

We are deeply grateful for his legacy of service, leadership, and mentorship. Thank you Jack for all you have and continue to do for High School Inc. Your impact will continue to be felt for generations of students to come.

Meet Susan!

Susan Davidson, High School Inc College and Career Coach., is recognized for her dedication to support students through their college and career journey. Susan consistently brings resources to students, offering workshops on resume building, interview preparation, public speaking, and financial literacy to help them feel prepared and confident for what’s ahead.

She also understands how critical scholarships are for students after graduation and makes it a priority to ensure students are aware of High School Inc. scholarship opportunities. Susan takes the time to guide students through the scholarship process and application steps, helping them navigate it with clarity and confidence.

Beyond her direct work with students, Susan is always willing to support the team however she can. Her commitment, reliability, and care for student success make a meaningful impact every day.

High School Inc. Mentorship Program

Join the High School Inc. Mentorship Program

Mentorship matters. At High School Inc., mentors play a key role in helping students build confidence, explore career possibilities, and navigate life after high school. By sharing your time, experiences, and guidance, you can help students see what’s possible and take meaningful steps toward their future.

Join a Mentorship Informational Orientation via Zoom on Thursday, January 15, 2026 at 12:00 PM or 6:00 PM to learn about the program, mentor expectations, and how to get involved.

Interested in learning more?

Join our Informational Orientation via Zoom

Thursday, January 15, 2026 at 12:00PM or 6:00PM

Zoom Links:

Click Here for 12:00PM

Click Here for 6:00PM

If you’re ready to take the next step, please complete the Mentor Interest Form.

Let’s invest in the next generation! Your guidance could be the turning point in a student’s life.

Become a Mentor - Click Here

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