Our Story

---

In 2020, shortly after graduating high school, then 18-year-old Janessa Garcia began campaigning as The Student For Students to be elected into the governing board of her local high school district in Ventura County, CA.

Previously involved in various community & student government organizations, including former District Council President and Student Body President, Janessa was well aware of the different challenges students faced districtwide. One of the biggest challenges for local students was college and career readiness. Students - herself included - did not have readily available access to all of the college-related information needed to successfully navigate the college planning process.

One of her platform goals was to increase awareness and access for every student to get college-related information, early on, to make informed decisions and pursue a higher education. 

On Election Day, Janessa received over 33,000 votes districtwide. She was heavily supported by recent high school graduates and parents who believed she could help the next generation of students. That day, Janessa lost the election; she only came in less than 500 votes shy of an incumbent and well-respected career-long educator.

Janessa wrote in her concession speech, “I want to inspire and help students succeed. This election did not take that off the table.” She lost the election; but she did not lose her purpose. She went back to the drawing board to rethink how she could help make things better for local students.

A few weeks later, Ms. Janessa Garcia conceptualized and founded The Student For Students Network to bring an energetic, student-led organization on a mission to connect 8th-12th grade students, early on, with helpful resources and information to understand, plan for and get on the road to college.  What makes The Student For students Network unique from other organizations is that it's made up of student ambassadors who promote college information by incorporating their own experiences - which helps other students relate more and plan better.  Our ultimate goal is to ensure every student has all the information they need to prepare themselves to be the best college applicants while closing the gap between high school graduation rates and college readiness rates. Together, we can build a stronger college-going culture. 

IMPORTANT PLEASE READ: We are a new organization in the process of incorporating and preparing to seek tax-exempt status. We are currently NOT a 501(c)3 corporation/organization. Your donation may not be tax deductible. Please consult with your CPA if needed. Should you wish to wait to become a member of our lifetime Founders Circle, feel free to contact us with your pledge and we will let you know as soon as our status is complete.