Program Overview

STEP-UP stands for the Shasta Technical Education Program-Unified Partnership and is a partnership between the: 

  • Shasta County Sheriff and Probation Departments
  • Tehama County Probation and Sheriff Department
  • Trinity County Sheriff and Probation Department
  • CDCR - Adult Parole Division
  • Good News Rescue Mission
  • California Heritage YouthBuild Academy
  • SMART Business Center
  • Tehama County Job Training Center
  • Butte County Office of Education
  • U.S. Probation

STEP-UP is an educational and vocational training program that provides formerly incarcerated students and students who are currently under court directed supervision with financial. Administrative, and educational support. Students in STEP-UP pursue certificates in technical education (CTE) and/or Associate’s Degrees in a variety of vocational and academic programs which when completed will position them for immediate employability in our community.

Students receive hands-on instruction and the opportunity to apply instruction received in practical situation through internships, industry consortiums, etc. The goal of the STEP-UP Program is to provide the community with a trained and drug free workers while reducing recidivism making our community a safer place. 

Program Recognition

  • 2025: Innovation Grant
  • 2023: HIRE-UP Pilot Program Recipient 
  • 2021: CA Economic Summit Partners in Industry & Education Award
  • 2019 - 2021: Alliance of Higher Education Inaugural National Cohort
  • 2019: STEP-UP Success Metrics Comparison (PDF)
  • 2019: Certificate of Recognition from Senator Kamala Harris​
  • 2018 - Present: Shasta County Community Corrections Partnership Partner Program 
  • 2018: California Innovation Award Recipient 
  • 2018: California State Association of Counties Administration of Justice Program of the Year 
  • 2017: California Community College Chancellors Office Student Success Program of the Year 

STEP-UP Student Support Fund

The Shasta College STEP-UP program is proud to work with the Shasta College Foundation to announce the STEP-UP Student Support Fund. We are committed to meeting the fundamental needs of our Shasta College student community. We believe that every student deserves the opportunity to succeed, and we know that many students face financial challenges that impact their academic performance and overall experiences. This fund will be utilized to support assisting students in meeting basic need barriers, housing support, emergency assistance, and scholarships. Many students face unexpected crises and financial hardships. Your donations allow us to ensure that these students can continue their education without being derailed by unforeseen circumstances. All awards will be vetted and approved by STEP-UP and foundation directors prior to distribution.