July 2012
COE celebrates community school graduates
Family, friends and educators gathered recently at the Santa Clara County Office of Education to celebrate the accomplishments of five students who recently graduated from COE community schools.
View a gallery of the ceremony here.
The students got the extra push to graduation thanks to a new summertime credit recovery program offered to students enrolled in the COE's Alternative Education Department.
While other students enjoyed summer vacation, the graduates participated in the voluntary, 20-day program that began just after regular classes ended in June.
"Our programs give students an opportunity to believe in themselves," Principal Angela Haick told the crowd gathered to celebrate the graduates. "Our kids have taken this opportunity and turned their lives around."
At the ceremony, each graduate had an opportunity to thank their family and friends from the podium, as well as offer a single rose to a loved one who supported their success.
County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Xavier De La Torre helped award diplomas at the event, and Sonja House, director of the COE's Foster Youth Services, sang the national anthem.
"We want to congratulate you and acknowledge you and encourage you to move forward in whatever college or career goals you have," Chief Academic Officer Linda Aceves told the graduates.
Date last updated: July 5, 2012
