Summer Camp Sparks Confidence, Career Curiosity for Alt Ed Students

Junior high students at the Kern County Superintendent of Schools (KCSOS) Alternative Education Community Learning Center (CLC) proudly showcased their creativity and skills on Friday, June 11 during a special event marking the culmination of a new six-week Career and Technical Education (CTE) Summer Camp. For the first time, students in the program presented hands-on projects to an audience of family members, KCSOS staff, and Kern County Board of Education Trustees — offering a glimpse into a summer filled with career exploration, academic growth, and renewed engagement.

Over the past six weeks, students at the school took part in the camp designed to spark interest in high-demand industries while reinforcing academic foundations. Each week highlighted a different Career and Technical Education (CTE) area, from construction to digital media. Students rotated daily between hands-on career activities and small-group academic instruction, creating opportunities for personalized support and deeper learning. Weekly swimming lessons at the McMurtrey Aquatic Center were also part of the schedule, helping students develop important life skills, many for the first time.

Although the camp was optional, participation was strong and daily attendance exceeded expectations. For students in alternative education — many of whom have struggled with consistency, confidence, or connection in traditional classrooms — their eagerness to participate reflected a shift in mindset and motivation.

For staff, the camp served as a clear signal of what can happen when programs are built around student interests and needs.

“The energy on campus is incredible,” said Principal Sal Arias. “Family members are checking in to see why their students are so excited to go to school. One even signed a waiver just to come observe the construction projects. That kind of curiosity tells us something special is happening.”

Leticia Chavez, a longtime paraprofessional who assisted CTE instructors this summer, said the program has already made a visible difference.

“Little triumphs are happening every day,” she said. “You can see the spark in these kids, and that’s what we want. When they go to high school, we want them to already know what CTE is and to see it as a path toward success.”

Pam Dobrenen, CTE Program Specialist for KCSOS’s Alternative Education program, said the camp’s structure played a critical role in building trust and engagement. The smaller group sizes and consistent adult support helped students feel safe to take risks, ask questions, and participate—many in ways they hadn’t before.

“We’re watching students who have been quiet or hesitant in traditional settings start to open up,” Dobrenen said. “One student who barely made eye contact during the school year now walks in smiling and greets staff by name. Those small shifts are huge signs that they’re growing in confidence.”