Vallejo and other Bay Area high school students added sailing lessons to physics and math studies Monday as part of a freeCalifornia Maritime Academy summer program that targets "B" students.

For the third summer, CMA has hosted more than 20 students for its 2003 Summer Bridge Program, an intensive six-week program that includes college-level classes in physics, math and English literature. Students live on campus during the program.

"Half of these students don't have a thought beyond high school when they are interviewed," said Howard Jackson, CMA program director.

The students, whose grade point average is in the "B" range, were recommended to the program by their high school counselors and teachers.

"These students have demonstrated potential for success in a four-year university but lack support, encouragement and self-confidence," Jackson said.

This summer, 23 students are enrolled in the program, including seven from Vallejo.

"During the six weeks, they are exposed to a college atmosphere and responsibility," Jackson said. And at the beginning, a "few are in tears, that's normal," he said, adding that for many, it's their first time away from home.

Jackson said not all parents support their children's desire for a college education. During an interview of one potential candidate, Jackson said the father refused to let his daughter participate and even said "she would never do more than have children and stay at home."

Parents are encouraged to participate inactivities including a reception dinner and a graduation ceremony in August.

"I was pleased to come because I want to get a feel for what the college load would be like," said Phil Martin, a Vallejo High School June graduate.

For Charlai Tippett, 16, a Vallejo High senior, this is her first experience living away from home.

"We really have a lot of work to do. You have to break it up into pieces and learn to be responsible and manage your time," Tippett said.

Robert England, one of three program faculty members this summer, has taught college algebra and trigonometry since the program began.

"I keep them busy," England said.

The students, who come from economically disadvantaged families and a cross section of ethnic groups, attend the program at no cost and are given a $400 stipend.

"The students are special because they are willing to make the leap from high school to college and to give up their summer," England said.

Students spend five mornings a week in math and physics classes, labs and discussion groups then attend English literature classes and math discussion groups in the evenings. Afternoons are reserved for sailing and rowing instruction and special activities which include guest speakers from colleges and universities, and information forums on financial aid and career placement opportunities.

"Teachers really help out," said Stephanie Alvarez, a Bethel High School senior.

Her roommate for the summer session, Jessica Calvo, also a Bethel senior, agreed that the one-on-one talks with teachers help her understand more complex math problems and offer time to discuss literary themes after English class.

Because the students range in age from 15 to 18, Jackson said there are six CMA student assistants who live in the dormitories with the high school students. The assistants went through the program and also worked with Vallejo High School students during the school year reviewing homework.

Jackson said there have never been any negative incidents during summer programs because students tend to live up to the expectations and responsibilities expected of them.

The addition of a rowing class last year and sailing lessons this year, has added fun and variety to the 42 days of studies, Jackson said.

"The boating courses teach teamwork. They partner in physics and boating," Jackson said.

For many students, being on the water is a first-time experience, he said. The boating lessons give students a new a comfort level on the water and build their confidence in accomplishing something new, he added.

Of the students who have completed the program, 90 percent have enrolled in four-year schools, Jackson said.

The program costs about $120,000 a year and Jackson raises about $90,000 himself from foundations and organizations, primarily in Oakland, with the rest of the funding coming from CMA.

Most students will return to high school and their regular class work in September.

"In fall, the homework will be a lot easier since learning self-discipline," Tippett said.

"Here it's totally up to you to schedule your time. There's no parents telling you when (to study)."