Our Programs
Rancho Cielo offers students hands-on vocational training and high school education in partnership with John Muir Charter Schools, a WASC-accredited charter school based in Nevada County, California.
Why Study At
Rancho Cielo?
Students learn in a safe, structured small learning community with individualized instruction to complete their high school diploma, GED® (General Education Development) test or HiSet® (High School Equivalency Test), and gain work experience and transferable occupational skills in a vocational program of their choice. Thanks to our generous supporters, our youth and their families never pay for our programs and services.
Rancho Cielo cultivates a goal-oriented atmosphere for students, providing tailored programs and services to meet their unique needs. Each student receives a personalized graduation plan, fostering their path to success. Students also receive opportunities for leadership development and gain knowledge in community awareness, personal wellness and job readiness.
Questions? Contact our Recruitment Coordinator at recruitment@ranchocieloyc.org or call (831) 444-3561.
Click HERE to complete the online application for any of our programs.
You may also download an application below. Email the completed application to recruitment@ranchocieloyc.org or mail to: Rancho Cielo Youth Campus, 710 Old Stage Rd., Salinas, CA 93908.
Intake Application 2025-2026 (English)
Intake Application 2025-26 (Spanish)
Please have the following documents ready:
- Latest school transcripts (unofficial)
- Picture identification: i.e.. California ID, Passport, School ID
- Social Security Card
- Birth Certificate
- Insurance Card
- Immunization record (if under 18 years of age)
Benefits of All Programs
- Comprehensive case management and mentorship.
- Mental health counseling, medical referrals and legal assistance.
- Nutritious daily meals and clothing support.
- Transportation within the Salinas area and from MST transit station. Bus passes available.
- Driver’s education.
- Inclusive, culturally affirming curriculum.
- Soft skills, basic computer skills and life skills.
- College and career transition support (financial aid applications, internships and job referrals).
- Engaging activities (bike maintenance, dog training, beekeeping, equestrian skills), field trips and guest speakers.
Marlene Ysarraraz
Classic Car Restoration
Student Spotlight
Sixteen-year-old Marlene Ysarraraz, a junior in the Classic Car Restoration program, comes from a family already connected to Rancho Cielo—her brother, Jesus, graduated from the Welding & Fabrication program in 2025.
About a year ago, Marlene decided to leave her traditional public high school in search of something more engaging. She wanted “hands-on learning, instead of just book-study.”
“The hallways at [my previous high school] were always so crowded,” she says. “I didn’t like going to school.”
Now, she finds a very different atmosphere. Sitting on a bench outside the Ted Taylor Vocational Center, she pauses in the sun, taking in the quiet—broken only by birds chirping in the distance.
Although she admits she hasn’t always been a “car person,” Marlene’s curiosity was sparked while browsing the Rancho Cielo website. The Auto & Diesel Repair program—especially Classic Car Restoration—caught her attention. That interest quickly grew into something more meaningful after her first hands-on project: painting a car hood.
