June 27, 2025

PFS 2025: Week 2 Highlights

Dear PFS Community,

As we wrap up Week 2 of our 35th summer, our campuses have been alive with energy, discovery, and meaningful connection. From college visits to team-building challenges, science olympiads to chalk art, and career exploration to animal therapy, our PFS Scholars embraced every moment with curiosity and joy. It was truly a week of learning without limits both in and out of the classroom, demonstrating that the PFS mission and spirit is alive and well. 

Just this week, three different PFS teachers shared that these five weeks are the best part of the year for them. One site director described the thrill of witnessing the PFS magic in action—how our teachers shine and help students build confidence, community, curiosity, and a genuine love of learning. These moments remind us why this work matters so deeply.

This week, I also had the privilege of filming a non-profit spotlight interview at Pasadena Media with PFS Co-founder Carmie Rodríguez. It was her vision—along with former Polytechnic School Head of School Mike Babcock—that gave birth to this extraordinary program. Together, they dreamed of a way to serve the community beyond Poly and offer summer enrichment to Pasadena youth with strong potential—students who could return to their schools each year as thriving learners and leaders. It was an honor to spend the morning with Carmie reflecting on 35 years of impact and recommitting ourselves to continuing Mike’s legacy and building upon the foundation they laid in 1990. In Carmie’s words, this program is truly a blessing—for our Scholars, for our teachers, for our schools, and for our community.

As you will see from our highlights below, this week at PFS there was truly no time to be idle—and we wouldn’t have it any other way. Thank you to our incredible teachers, site directors, interns, partners, and Scholars for making Week 2 so memorable. We look forward to another exciting week of learning, growth, and community.

College Dreams in Action
Our juniors and seniors took inspiring trips to explore Occidental College, Cal State LA, and Cal Poly Pomona. These visits offered a powerful glimpse into the next chapter of their academic journeys. Students asked insightful questions, imagined themselves on college campuses, and returned more motivated than ever to pursue academic and professional goals.

PCC Courses Begin at Poly
This week, 57 of our PFS high school Scholars began their Pasadena City College courses, engaging in rigorous, college-level learning that will earn them college credit and deepen their academic foundation. Courses include: Fundamentals of Speech, Personal Growth and Development, Introduction to Public Health, and Personal Finance. We are so proud of their drive and dedication as they take on this exciting new challenge!

Human Rights Course Comes to Life
Sophomores brought their Human Rights course to life through a visit to the Pasadena Courthouse, thanks to the generous support of Judge Longoria and his colleagues. They observed court proceedings and engaged in meaningful conversations about justice, equity, and the legal system—experiences that will stay with them long beyond the summer.

Middle School Magic
Middle school Scholars dove into a wide range of joyful, hands-on learning—from tackling engineering challenges at a local manufacturing company to welcoming a surprise visit from party goats (yes, really!) that provided animal therapy and a deeper understanding of the role goats play in maintaining sustainable and fire safe environments through activities such as brush clearance. These unique experiences continue to build the confidence, creativity, and collaboration that define the PFS experience.

Career Day at Chandler
At Chandler, students explored exciting career paths during Career Day, featuring a special presentation by Shannon Tindle—American animator, storyboard artist, television writer, screenwriter, and director. He inspired Scholars to dream big and follow their creative passions.

Science & Art at Westridge
At Westridge, Scholars lit up the week with a vibrant mix of science and art. They participated in a Science Olympiad and created expressive chalk art that brightened the campus. These activities reminded us that learning thrives in joyful, collaborative, and expressive spaces.

We encourage you to connected and follow our summer adventures on Instagram: @pfspasadena

With gratitude and excitement,

Dr. Jessica Pérez del Toro
Executive Director

Important PFS Dates

Please mark your calendar with the following important dates!

July 4: Independence Day Holiday 

July 11: PFS Alumni Day

July 14: PFS at Chandler Family Night

July 15: PFS at Westridge Family Night

July 16: PFS at Mayfield Junior Family Night

July 17: PFS Graduation and Poly Family Night

July 18: Last day of PFS 2025

Site Director Contact Information

For site specific questions and information, please contact the appropriate site director.

Polytechnic, Grades 9-13
Scarlette Oregón

Mayfield Junior, Grades 7-8
Juan García

Chandler, Boys in Grades 5-6
Paul Camargo 

Westridge, Girls in Grades 5-6
Dr. Vicki Garrett