Welcome to SBici

In a space that used to house Santa Barbara High School’s auto shop, a group of teens joke, laugh, and gently tease each other under the shade of a large metal awning. With the exception of a rusting car off to the side, the space has been transformed. It is now an open air bike shop, home to the campus club that meets each Thursday after school. Members of SBici work together adjusting brake cables, greasing chains, repairing flat tires, and creating a community.

Laura Almengor says it was the friendly atmosphere that motivated her to become a member. The senior grew up riding bikes, but she walked into the club three years ago with very little mechanical knowledge. “Everyone was funny, patient, caring, and very open minded.” Her experiences inspired a growing love of cycling. Today she is president of SBici.

Teacher advisor, Rita Czegledi says the club offers students a way to earn the 60 hours of community service necessary to graduate, but it goes beyond that by providing “a place that kids can feel safe, give back to their community, and practice mentorship.”