STEP-UP CSAC Award

REDDING, CA – The California State Association of Counties (CSAC) has named Shasta College’s Shasta Technical Education Program-Unified Partnership (STEP-UP) as the 2018 Challenge Award winner in the Suburban Administration of Justice and Public Safety category. STEP-UP was one of 58 county programs considered for this honor across the state. The award will be presented by the CSAC Deputy Executive Director, Manuel Rivas at the Shasta County Board of Supervisors Chambers on December 11, 2018 at 9:00 A.M. This award recognizes counties that have demonstrated innovative strategies in improving public safety and reducing recidivism in their communities. “To receive this award after only five years of operation is a huge honor,” said Program Director of STEP-UP, Robert Bowman. “This shows what communities can accomplish when they work together.” Bowman stated.

STEP-UP is a partnership between Shasta College, the Shasta County Probation and Sheriff’s Departments, the Good News Rescue Mission, the California Heritage YouthBuild Academy, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation’s Parole Division, and the Butte County Office of Education. STEP-UP was started five years ago by Sheriff Tom Bosenko and Shasta College’s Associate Vice-President of Economic and Workforce Development Eva Jimenez. STEP-UP provides low risk offenders with academic and logistical support to assist them in successfully earning either a Certificate in Technical Education (CTE) or an Associate’s Degree with the aim of gaining employment and becoming productive, law-abiding members of our community.