Coyote BLUE-PRIME gives Inland Empire high school students a head start on college

CSUSB’s Office of Pre-College Programs, welcomed 189 Inland Empire high school students this summer for Coyote BLUE (Building Links to Undergraduate Education)-PRIME (Pre-College Readiness in Math and English), a four-week dual enrollment program that allowed participants to earn college credit while experiencing college life.

Coyote BLUE-PRIME is a comprehensive college readiness initiative that combines college coursework, academic support in English language arts and mathematics, mentorship, college and career exploration, and a residential campus experience. Through personalized support and hands-on learning, the program helps students build confidence, understand college expectations, and prepare for success in college and beyond.

The program was made possible through partnerships with Apple Valley Unified, Palm Springs Unified, Fontana Unified, San Bernardino City Unified and Victor Valley Union High school districts. Through these partnerships, the program served high school sophomores, juniors and seniors. Students took courses taught by CSUSB faculty in subjects ranging from history and government to kinesiology, sociology, ethnic studies and oral communication. 

A highlight was Residential Week, when 187 students lived in CSUSB’s Cajon Hall and Running Springs residence halls. Students also participated in enrichment activities, including financial literacy and GIS mapping workshops; a civic engagement panel featuring Kevin Grisham, professor of global studies, and alumni guests; and a motivational presentation by alumnus Kevon Lee. Additionally, a college student panel offered participants firsthand insight into the college experience.

Daniel Garcia of Cajon High School said the program helped prepare him for his senior year and gave him confidence in his ability to succeed at the college level.

“This program showed me what it’s really like to learn in a college environment,” Garcia said. “The accelerated courses helped me develop important time management skills, and earning college credit gave me the confidence to know I’m ready for college. Coyote BLUE-PRIME enhances the core skills we learn in high school and helps us grow both academically and personally.”

The program concluded July 9 with a celebration at the Santos Manuel Student Union (SMSU) North attended by students, families, program partners and CSUSB leaders, including Molly Springer, former associate vice president for Student Affairs; Paz Oliverez, former vice president for Student Affairs; Rafik Mohamed, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs; and Summer Steele, interim assistant vice president for Admissions, Recruitment, and Pre-College Programs.

Coyote BLUE-PRIME was made possible through K-16 initiative grant funding and partnerships with participating school districts and CSUSB departments. Cal-SOAP provided program staffing; the Office of Admissions Operations and Systems and Office of the Registrar facilitated enrollment; and student housing, Coyote Commons, Yotie Eats, Panda Express and the SMSU North helped create a welcoming and engaging campus experience for participants.

For the Coyote BLUE-PRIME team, the program is about more than earning college credit. It is about helping students recognize their potential and providing the support they need to succeed in higher education.

“One of the most rewarding parts of Coyote BLUE-PRIME summer 2026 was watching students realize that they truly belong in college,” said Grace Fry-Garcia, manager of Coyote BLUE-PRIME. “Over the course of four weeks, they did more than earn college credit. They developed the confidence, independence and skills needed to succeed in higher education. Students learned how to navigate the admissions process, use Canvas, communicate with professors, advocate for themselves and strengthen their academic foundation through dedicated English and math support.

“The residential week was especially transformative for many participants,” she continued. “Living on campus, completing college coursework, and building relationships with students from school districts across the region helped them gain independence, form lasting friendships, and envision themselves as future college students.

“It is incredibly meaningful to be part of a program that provides these life-changing opportunities at no cost to students and their families. This year’s cohort was exceptional, engaged, respectful, enthusiastic and eager to learn. Watching their confidence grow throughout the summer was inspiring, and I look forward to welcoming another outstanding group of students next year,” Fry-Garcia concluded.