In a virtual graduation ceremony today, the Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) honored nearly 50 high school students from multiple Community School sites. The graduates had all earned diplomas through SCOE’s Senior Extension Program. The program helps re-engage students in jeopardy of dropping out of high school and helps those who have been out of school and want to return to complete their diploma requirements.
“This is a virtual celebration, but the pride we feel for you is very real,” said Sacramento County Superintendent of Schools David W. Gordon in a recorded address. “Graduation is an important step in your life journey, but remember this is just one—and only one—of many milestones you will reach during your lives.”
The keynote speaker was Shane Logan, a professor with the Los Rios Community College District. The professor is also co-director of the Re-Emerging Scholars Program, which provides support, programming, and classes for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated students as they transition into college. Logan acknowledged the challenges the graduates faced, not only academically, but also with current COVID restrictions. “Survival in itself is a merit badge. But the fact that you’re not only surviving, you’re thriving. And achieving. And graduating from high school (which is no easy feat). I think that is absolutely amazing. And a testament to the character that you yourself built,” he said.
Senior Extension Program Helps Students Complete Their Education
Each of SCOE’s Community School sites for at-risk students serves as a hub for the Senior Extension Program, which involves a combination of independent study and classroom work. Students earn credits while still fulfilling work and family obligations—things that would otherwise have prevented them from completing their high school education. Senior Extension is offered at the following SCOE sites: Cordova Lane, Elinor Lincoln Hickey Jr./Sr. High School, Gerber Jr./Sr. High School, and North Area Community School. Services are also offered in Galt.