Student Support Services

Mission

Through the understanding of youth development, we honor every student’s individuality and unique educational needs. We promote the cooperation and coordination of school and community agencies to meet the needs of students by: increasing access to resources, expanding prevention and intervention services, enhancing community awareness and empowering youth and families.

Vision

Helping Students to Help Themselves

Goals

Seek out grants and other resources to promote and enhance student learning through a variety of creative strategies.

About Student Support Services

The Student Support Services Department has been working hard to bring quality programs to the students of Santa Cruz County since 1995. Each year we provide a variety of academic and other supportive services to over 4,000 students throughout the county. These services are rooted in the philosophy of Youth Development that emphasizes a caring and respectful community that values the contribution youth can make in determining their own futures. We believe that strong collaborations with school districts, governmental and community-based agencies, parents, businesses and a variety of other community members are vital to the success of our youth.

The SCCOE's Superintendent's Vision and Priorities for 2007-2010 are evident in the strong collaborative efforts that have contributed to the success of students receiving our services. At present, SSS houses more than a dozen programs designed specifically to support and challenge the youth of Santa Cruz.

New Staff

Student Support Services is happy to welcome new staff members to our department!

María Rodríguez-Castillo is the new Work Experience Specialist working with the Sueños Academy. Maria brings to her position over 10 years of experience with non-profits. Before joining WIA she worked to support survivors of childhood sexual abuse through a healing process; she also advocated for people with disabilities to be sure their civil rights were respected. In addition, she directed Shining Stars - a performance group for children and youth with and without disabilities. She is currently Chair to the Santa Cruz County Alcohol and Drug Abuse Commission.

"I am very excited and feel fortunate to be part of the Santa Cruz County Office of Education serving and supporting youth in our community."
- Maria Rodriguez-Castillo

Karen Lemon is parting with her position in Student Support Services to become an ROP teacher at Renaissance High School in Watsonville. She will be missed in the SSS Department!

Nohemi Macias is replacing Karen as project specialist of the Students in Transition program. Nohemi is a graduate of the University of California, Santa Cruz and holds a Bachelors of Arts degree in Business Management Economics. She was born and raised in Watsonville, CA.

"I am thrilled to be involved with my community. It's what I've always wanted to do as a career."
- Nohemi Macias