BLOOMINGTON, CA – Today, Congressman Joe Baca hosted his Youth Education Motivation Program (YEMP) at the Joe Baca Middle School, and presented a financial contribution to the school library at a ceremony held this morning.  The funding contributed by Rep. Baca will be used to help purchase books and technology to enrich the student learning experience at the newly opened school, located at 1640 S. Lilac Ave, Bloomington.  After the check presentation, the Congressman gave inspiring remarks about the importance of education to area educators and various civic and business community leaders who participated in the day’s YEMP activities.  

“Education is the key to a sound future for our children,” said Rep. Baca.  “I am happy to provide this financial assistance to benefit the learning experience for students at the Joe Baca Middle School.  In Congress, I will continue to work so that all our young people get a quality education and have greater access to opportunities for success in life.”  

YEMP is a quarterly program co-founded in 1976 by Congressman Baca and a handful of community and education advocates, designed to motivate middle school students to stay in school while giving back to the community.  The goal of the program is to improve and enhance student understanding of the connection between school and future success in the workplace.  Volunteer adult speakers from all walks of life shared their experiences with students about how education has played a major role in their lives.  Two speakers were assigned to each classroom to give their own unique presentations. 

“I am pleased that so many of our area civic, business, and education leaders participated in today’s YEMP activities,” added Rep. Baca.  “It is absolutely critical that our young people have a chance to hear directly from positive role models, so they can get a first-hand understanding of how education makes a difference in people’s lives.  I sincerely thank those individuals who gave of themselves to take part in today’s YEMP activities, and recognize them for their commitment to the success of the youth of the Inland Empire.”     

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