NextUp & Guardian Scholars

The NextUp and Guardian Scholars Programs at Coastline College provide equity-centered, holistic support to students with current or former lived experience in the foster care system and those who are justice-impacted. The programs are designed to promote academic achievement, persistence, and degree completion by addressing educational, financial, and personal barriers to student success. Through individualized, trauma-informed, and student-centered services, we meet students where they are and empower them to progress at their own pace while maximizing access to available financial aid, campus resources, and support services.

Apply Today!

NextUp Program Eligibility:

• Be a California Resident or Meet the California Dream Act requirements.
• Were in foster care, in any state, for at least one day, on or after their 13th birthday. (Verification of Dependency Required)
• Under the age of 26 at the start of the academic year or have participated in the NextUp program at Coastline College or another California Community College prior to your 26th birthday. (Verification Required)
• Are enrolled in or planning to enroll in at least nine units or agree to an education plan with the future goal of enrolling in nine units.

Guardian Scholars Program Eligibility:

• Be a California Resident or Meet the California Dream Act requirements.
• Were in the foster care or justice system for at least one day in your life. (Verification of Dependency Required)
• Are enrolled in or planning to enroll in at least nine units or agree to an education plan with the future goal of enrolling in nine units.Academic Counseling and Comprehensive Student Education Plan (CSEP)

NextUp and Guardian Scholars Program Services:

• Academic Counseling and Comprehensive Student Education Plan (CSEP)
• Priority Registration
• Financial Aid Support, guidance and advocacy to maximize student financial aid awards
• Book, supplies, meal, and transportation assistance *
• NextUp Grants
• Transfer and Career Exploration Services
• Target Workshops
• Jonh Burton Advocates for Youth (JBAY) Grants *
• Community referral and resources
• Basic Needs Referrals
• Emergency Grants *

 *Based on funding availability. 

Program Highlights

• History of NextUp Program

  Launched in 2014 through California Senate Bill 1023, the NextUp program—also known as CAFYES (Cooperating Agencies Foster Youth Educational Support)—was created to support the educational success of current and former foster youth enrolled in California community colleges. Recognizing the unique challenges foster youth face in higher education, NextUp provides enhanced services such as academic counseling, tutoring, book and supply assistance, transportation, food and housing support, and career planning. The program is designed to empower students through individualized support and a strong community of care, helping them achieve their academic and life goals.

• Meet the Team

  

  Esther Garcia
  NextUp & Guardian Scholars Specialist

   

  

  Carlos Amescua
  Director, EOPS/CARE/NextUp, & CalWORKs

   

• Student Testimonials

  

  "I learned about NextUp/Guardian Scholars, they welcomed me with open arms and helped me more than I could have ever imagined. The whole NextUp/Guardian Scholars team fought for a year to help me get independent status so I could receive financial aid and not be homeless anymore." - Jasmin Cobian

   

  

  "My experience with the NextUp program here at Coastline heavily contributed to my success as a student. I came to Coastline nervous and scared but with a goal to transfer to Cal State Fullerton. With the help of their amazing staff, I was able to execute that goal with ease and now I’m going to further pursue my career goals at my dream school, Cal State Fullerton." - Alexa Krause

   

• Schedule a Counseling Appointment

  By Phone:
  If you need help with scheduling, assistance is available in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese by calling (714)-241-6237 during business hours.

  Online Scheduling:
  Click here to use our online booking system and schedule an appointment with a counselor.
  
  

Frequently Asked Questions

• Questions & Answers

  1. What if I do not have my verification of Dependency?

  No worries! Getting your verification of dependency from the State of California is super easy, and they usually email it the same day.

  
  Just reach out to them at (877) 658 9731 or Ombudsperson@dds.ca.gov. Have your full name, date of birth, and social security number handy to make it go even faster.

  2. What if my dependency was established in another state?

  No problem! Most states have a Child Welfare or Social Services agency that can provide verification of dependency. Explain it is for educational purposes and have your full name, date of birth, and social security number handy, and approximate time in care ready. This helps speed up the process.
  
  If you need support obtaining your verification of dependency, we’re here to help you every step of the way!