San Jose, CA — San Jose State University’s Pre-College Programs were announced as the 1st place winner of G.I. Forum’s Cinco de Mayo Parade in the ‘school float’ category on June 16, 2008.

Everyone involved in the project arrived at SJSU bright and early on Sunday, May 4, 2008 to put everything together before the parade. Despite the overcast skies and a few sprinkles in the morning, it did not discourage anyone from participating in the parade.

The float’s theme was “Education is for everyone! Education is forever!” The float featured a classroom setting in the Town of Puebla in 1862.  Students, parents and staff dressed in traditional costumes and graduation caps and gowns.

During the parade everyone chanted the float theme and held picket signs promoting UC and CSU Universities in order to advocate education for everyone.  At the end of the parade students were excited and started to shout out ideas for next year’s float.

Students, parents and staff worked throughout the month of April to prepare all the details for the float.  Students also came in on their free time to help with any last minute details and preparations.

Parents involved with PCP’s Parent Empowerment Council dedicated time after work to drop-off props and create the overall frame for the float. Emiliano Quevedo, PEC Vice- President, volunteered use of his truck and flat-bed to use during the float.

For more information about Pre-College Programs visit http://pcp.sjsu.edu or call (408) 924-2567.