June 26, 2025 – High school and middle school students from across California, including many from our own community, are getting a jumpstart on their academic and leadership journeys this summer through the California Teaching Fellows Foundation (CTFF) Summer Residential Programs.
Partnering with California State University, Fresno, CTFF is hosting its fourth annual Teaching Fellows Summer University (TFSU) — a series of immersive summer residential programs designed to provide transformative college experiences for students throughout California.
This summer, CTFF is hosting five residential programs: two for high school students, two for middle school students, and one for parents. Participants represent a broad range of communities across California. These programs aim to inspire academic excellence, personal growth, and college readiness through hands-on learning, mentorship, and enrichment activities in a university setting.
In addition, the Teaching Fellows Parent University (TFPU) offers parents of participating students a two-day immersive experience at Fresno State, where they engage in workshops focused on navigating the education system, accessing support services, learning about TFSU and the impact it has on the students, and fostering a college-going culture at home.
“Our summer residential programs are designed to give students an authentic college experience that goes far beyond academics,” said Pedro Lopez, Program Manager. “By living in dorms, engaging in hands-on classes, and building relationships with trained mentors, students not only explore future career pathways but also develop a strong sense of confidence, connection, and belonging within a university environment. We want every student to leave feeling inspired and equipped to pursue higher education.”
Students in each program live in Fresno State dorms, attend daily classes, and participate in workshops and enrichment activities led by current Teaching Fellows — college students working in expanded learning programs during the academic year. Teaching Fellows staff, who currently hold leadership positions such as site leads and assistant site leads in expanded learning programs, serve as resident advisers.
“Teaching Fellows Summer University is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience not just for us as staff, but for the students as well. I have deep admiration for every student who travels to Fresno with the courage and curiosity to explore college life, build meaningful connections with peers, instructors, and RAs, and step into a new chapter of growth,” said Lexi Streets, Residential Advisor for TFSU. “TFSU cultivates a genuine sense of belonging and excitement that stays with everyone involved.”
All Residential Advisors (RAs) receive comprehensive training in student supervision, leadership, conflict resolution, and emergency procedures. Their role is to ensure that every student is supported and safe throughout the entire residential experience.
The programs offer a variety of tracks to cater to different interests:
Health & Fitness Track: Soccer, yoga, boxing, zumba, and strength training.
English Language Arts Track: Creative writing designed to strengthen literacy skills and build student voice through expression and critical thinking.
Higher Education Track: College exploration, majors and career exploration.
STEM Track: Computers, drones & aviation, graphic design, and RC engineering.
Cultural Awareness Track: Folklórico, Latin dance, Making la Banda, DJing, and hip-hop dance.
In addition to the on-campus experience, students will be invited to participate in two follow-up university field trips during the 2025–2026 academic year, continuing their exposure to California State University campuses and higher education pathways.
From movie nights to activities on campus and a field trip to Six Flags, students enjoy a vibrant campus experience that fosters connection, confidence, and unforgettable memories beyond the classroom.
For more information about Teaching Fellows Summer University or ways to support CTFF’s mission, contact Natalie Dodson at natalie.dodson@ctff.us.