2026–2027 Cohort

The Parenting Scholars Program is a new initiative within the Parents & Families Program designed to support pregnant and parenting undergraduate students in achieving academic success while balancing family responsibilities.

This is a community-based program recognizing parenting students as scholars and provides structured support, community, and resources to help students stay engaged, persist academically, and graduate.

The program will support 15–20 Parenting Scholars to participate in a semester cohort experience.

Who Can Apply

The Parenting Scholars Program is open to undergraduate students who:

• Are pregnant or parenting
• Are a first-year, incoming transfer, or reenrolled student (returning after an absence of more than two consecutive semesters)
• Are in good academic standing, or are willing to participate in an academic success plan

Program Benefits

Parenting Scholars will receive access to:

• Earn 1 Unit of Credit Toward Your Degree: Students who enroll in and successfully complete the Parenting Scholars Seminar will earn 1 unit of academic credit toward their degree while building skills to support their academic success and well-being.
• Flexible Learning and Peer Support: Scholars will participate in twice-monthly experiences alternating between live Zoom cohort meetings and self-paced virtual discussion posts. Topics include academic planning, wellness, time management, career development, and connection with other student parents.
• Connection to Campus Resources: Participants receive coordinated support through the Parents & Families Program, including assistance navigating childcare opportunities through the ASI Children’s Center when space is available.
  Scholar Recognition: Students who complete the program will be recognized at a Student Parent Graduation Celebration and will receive a certificate of completion and an honor stole.

Scholar Expectations

Parenting Scholars are expected to:

• Attend and participate in all alternating cohort Zoom meetings and complete all virtual discussion posts throughout the semester.
• Maintain academic commitment and progress toward their degree
  Participate in at least one Parents & Families Program activity during the semester
• Complete at least one advising check-ins each semester
  Submit a short reflection about their program experience

Why This Program Matters

Parenting students bring resilience, leadership, and determination to Sacramento State. The Parenting Scholars Program is designed to build community, belonging, and academic momentum while recognizing the strength and commitment of student parents.

Apply to Become a Parenting Scholar

Students interested in joining the Parenting Scholars Program must complete the Parenting Scholars Interest Form.

Parenting Scholars Interest Form

Note: Cohort size is limited to 15–20 students, so interested students are encouraged to apply early.