The Bakersfield College Arvin Educational Center officially opened, marking a historic moment for the city of Arvin and its residents. To celebrate the grand opening of the center local officials, students, and community members held a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
The center was made possible through Measure J funding ($500 million) and the collaborative efforts of local leaders, educators, and community members.
Arvin’s Mayor Olivia Calderon, described the Arvin Educational Center as a symbol of hope and opportunity, especially for immigrant families.
“Regardless of where they come from, where they were born, their income, or the language that they speak, this center is going to give everyone the opportunity to unlock their fullest potential,” said Calderon.
Jose Gurrola, former mayor of Arvin and city council member, discussed his long-standing advocacy for bringing a Bakersfield College (BC) center to Arvin. He recalled their early involvement in attending town halls and lobbying for accessible higher education in Arvin, which motivated his run for city council to make a college education more accessible.
“All that took a lot of community effort, so this is not any one person… thousands of people in this community spoke up, attended these meetings, helped elect leaders like myself, and supported Measure J,” Gurrola said.
Gurrola said he believed the BC center will be a “game changer” for Arvin, by boosting education and the local economy.
Giovanni Jimenez (KCCD Trustee), spoke as a proud Arvin High School graduate and recalled how the campus was once an empty lot and is now a place of opportunity.
“I see future doctors, engineers, educators, and leaders walking through these doors. And I know that one day, they will come back to uplift the very community that raised them,” Jimenez said.
Dr. Gabriel Ramirez, Arvin High School Principal, knowledge the partnership between Arvin High and Bakersfield College. By allowing high school students to take college-level courses, through an Early College Program where they can earn college credits and even complete associate degrees while still in high school. The partnership supports students in the Arvin and Lamont areas, providing access to higher education opportunities.
“At Arvin High, we work to ensure all students learn and thrive so that they can graduate high school and continue to college or are prepared for a career so that they can contribute positively to society and their local community,” he said.
Ramirez shared he is looking forward to being on this journey with students and to see all of their success to come.
The Arvin Center provide a range of academic programs and student services designed to support local students in their educational journey.
Courses Offered at the Arvin Center:
•General Education Courses for transfer to CSU, UC, and private universities.
•EMLS English Classes to support English learners.
•Non-Credit Courses, including basic computer skills for workforce readiness.
•Career & Technical Training:
•EMT Training for students pursuing emergency medical careers.
•Biology, Human Anatomy, and Physiology courses for healthcare-related fields.
•Statistics and English for various academic and professional paths.
