Proud family members, friends, mentors, and teachers cheered as students from the graduating classes representing four Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) Student Programs received their diplomas during a June 14th ceremony.
Held at the Sierra Health Foundation, the ceremony acknowledged the academic achievements of 20 students graduating from the Elinor Lincoln Hickey High School, North Area Community School, Gerber Road Jr./Sr. High School, and Carson Creek High School campuses.
In addressing the graduating classes, Superintendent of Schools David W. Gordon told the students to be proud of their achievements.
"Many of you overcame real and almost insurmountable odds. And here's what you discovered: You have great potential. Do not underestimate it. Please realize all people who have accomplished great things, at some point in their lives, were much like you," Superintendent Gordon said.
During the ceremony, graduate speaker Douglas Myers thanked his teachers, mentors and others who supported him. "Thanks to everyone who didn't give up on me, your efforts will not be wasted," Myers said.
Assisting Superintendent Gordon in the presentation of diplomas were Sacramento County Board of Education Trustee Greg Geeting and Sierra Health Foundation President and CEO Chet Hewitt.
"All of the graduates in this room, in their caps and gowns, remind all of us of the power that young people bring," said Sierra Health Foundation's Hewitt, who served as guest speaker at the commencement. "I have a deep affinity for young people who, despite their challenges, manage to find their way to success."
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.
SCOE community school students have the opportunity to benefit from enrollment in the LINKS program. LINKS is a SCOE career technical education model that is aimed at helping high-risk students succeed. Services are tailored to individual students based on their specific needs instead of through traditional, scripted education.
Following the diploma ceremony, family members, friends, mentors, school faculty, and staff celebrated at a reception.