Inaugural Post: Launch of the JREP

>> Graves School (November 17-18, 2025)

MSVRR members visited the Graves School (part of the Salinas Unified School District) in November 2025, successfully launching the Junior Railroad Engineering Program (JREP). This was a significant milestone in the growth of our organization and its impact with the Salinas community. We engaged with a range of students from grades K-8 across the 2 days, all of whom received A grades on end-of-class assessments. The students' enthusiasm held strong as they were provided hands-on access to model railroading with a set of time-saver trains from MSVRR. Notably, teachers reported significant increases to student engagement and STEM subjects as our volunteers ensured all students had a chance to learn about local railroading history and operations. MSVRR is excited to continue JREP with the support of Union Pacific, and are proud of the work our volunteers have accomplished! We look forward to many more opportunities with the students of Salinas and the local community!