Borrego Springs High School Interpretation Course and Internship Program

Borrego Springs, CA, May 2nd, 2026 by Jim Dion

The Borrego Springs High School Interpretation Course and Internship Program is an innovative Career Technical Education (CTE) initiative that prepares students for careers in hospitality, public service, and environmental interpretation. Launched in the 2019–2020 school year, the program integrates classroom instruction, industry-recognized certification, and hands-on internships. It is implemented through the Borrego Springs Unified School District and aligned with its Hospitality CTE pathway.

Students in isolated communities such as ours often face limited access to career exploration opportunities, professional certifications, and paid work-based learning experiences. This program addresses those gaps by providing structured pathways into local and regional employment sectors, particularly within public lands management, tourism, and community-based organizations.

The program is a two-year sequence:

• Year 1: Certification and Coursework

Students complete an in-class, for-credit course culminating in interpretive guide and host certification through the National Association for Interpretation. Participants also earn Emergency First Aid and CPR certification through American CPR Training. 

• Year 2: Paid Internship Experience

Students who successfully complete Year 1 transition into internships conducted in partnership with Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Interns rotate through operational units, gaining exposure to park management, visitor services, and interpretive programming. Additional placements include the Borrego Water District, Anza-Borrego Foundation, and Borrego Art Institute. 

Goals and Objectives of the Program

• Provide students with industry-recognized certifications and workforce-ready skills 
• Expand access to paid, career-aligned internship opportunities 
• Increase awareness of careers in public lands, hospitality, and local government 
• Strengthen partnerships between schools, public agencies, and community organizations 

Outcomes and Impact

• By the end of the 2025–2026 school year, 75 students will have completed the certification and internship program 
• Students gain hands-on experience, professional mentorship, and exposure to career pathways 
• The program has demonstrated sustained student interest and strong community support 

Funding and Sustainability

The Borrego Village Association recently secured a grant from Parks California, securing funding through the 2028 school year. This funding enables the program to provide paid internship opportunities, ensuring equitable access for all students. Additional support is, and has been since 2018, provided by the San Diego County Board of Supervisors, Borrego Springs Rotary Foundation, Borrego Springs Education Foundation, and the Borrego Valley Endowment Fund.

Program Leadership and Partnerships

The program is led by local educator Stacy Valdez and supported by district leadership and community partners, including California State Parks. We greatly appreciate California State Parks - Colorado Desert District Supervisor, Ray Lennox for his dedication to making this program a success and making available his staff and resources, to support the youth of our community.  These collaborations ensure high-quality instruction, mentorship, and real-world learning experiences.

An Opportunity for Students!

Due to demonstrated success, the program will continue into the 2026–2027 academic year, expanding to serve new cohorts of sophomores, juniors, and seniors. If you are a student at Borrego Springs High School that is interested in participating in this two year CTE, for credit course elective, please contact Borrego Springs Hogh School Principal Victoria Baay.

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