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.
Edith Rodriguez
Drummond Culinary Academy
Student Spotlight
Less than a year after enrolling, Rodriguez is on track to graduate this December. She worked nearly every Friday Night Dinner and participated in most DCA catering events last year—that’s roughly 90 events total.
“Edith is one of the most focused, hard-working students I have ever worked with at Rancho Cielo,” says DCA General Manager Wanda Straw. “She is determined to create a successful, meaningful life for herself and it shows in both the classroom and kitchen.”
During a summer internship with Ad Astra Bread Co., Rodriguez discovered a talent for baking. She later became a pastry assistant at Otto’s Bread Co., where her brown-butter banana bread chocolate chip cookies sold out the same day. Read more.
