Martin Macias, an instructor at Hilmar Middle School and Hilmar High School, organized the trip in conjunction with the University of California, Merced. UC Merced is working to develop relationships with all schools, especially rural and small schools, to make sure that no one is left out, said Encarnacion Ruiz, director of the University of California, Merced, Office of Relations with Schools. Our goal is to create greater access for Valley students to the University. We commend Martin Macias energy and support of our common efforts.
Students participating in the field trip are from diverse backgrounds.
All were recommended by a teacher, maintain a 3.0 or higher grade point average, and are first generation college students. Many of these kids have never been to a college campus before, explained Macias. I am trying to increase awareness and demonstrate the importance, prestige, and value of higher education, particularly a UC education. This week s field trip to UC Davis is the first of three UC campus tours planned by Macias for the 2000-2001 school year. May. Contributions from the community enable Macias to include additional students and add more campus visits.