An energetic crowd of proud family members, friends, and teachers, cheered as the graduating classes from the Elinor Lincoln Hickey High School, North Area Community High School, and Carson Creek High School campuses received their diplomas during a June 16 commencement exercise.
Held at the Sierra Health Foundation, the ceremony acknowledged the academic achievements of 19 students graduating from Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) programs.
In addressing the graduating classes, Superintendent of Schools David W. Gordon told the students to be proud of their achievements, to continue working hard, and to make the time to give back to the communities in which they live.
"No one can accurately predict your future. But please realize that all of you have what it takes to make a significant difference in your communities," Superintendent Gordon said. "Make the time to volunteer and to help others less fortunate than yourselves. Volunteerism is all part of shaping the whole person. It is all part of an ongoing education that takes a lifetime."
Hickey and North Area Principal Andrea Lemos was assisted in presenting diplomas to the students by Trustee Harold Fong and Trustee Greg Geeting.
Sierra Health Foundation is a private philanthropic organization promoting improved health and quality of life for the people of Northern California. The foundation provides in-kind meeting and event space for nonprofit organizations through its Conference and Convening Program, welcoming thousands of guests annually.
"We have 15,000 people come through our doors every year, but you 19 students who are here today are the most important people who will enter this facility this year," Sierra Foundation President Hewitt told the graduates. "You are worthy. You are contributors and you will succeed. There are no limits to what you can do and what you can achieve."
Family members, friends, mentors, school faculty, and staff cheered the graduates and celebrated at a reception following the ceremony.
Elinor Lincoln Hickey Jr./Sr. High School is a community school dedicated to providing students an opportunity to continue their education and experience a significant positive personal change in their lives. Although the program focuses on academic success, the development of positive interpersonal skills and social interactions are important components of the school's program.
Students have the opportunity to benefit from enrollment in the general community school class and in an extended-day LINKS program. LINKS students have the opportunity to enroll in various ROP classes, participate in Work Experience Education, meet with mentors, participate in special industry tours, and utilize the Career Success Center for vocational goal setting and career exploration.
The North Area Community School serves public school students in grades 7-12 who are referred by school districts located primarily in the north and northwest portions of Sacramento County. In addition to district referrals for expelled students or referrals by the district's School Attendance Review Board (SARB), the Probation Department may make referrals through the student's home school district. Students currently homeless may also be referred to the program.
Carson Creek High School serves detained, at-risk students. Carson Creek is located within the Sacramento County Boys Ranch juvenile facility operated by the Sacramento County Probation Department.