The Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) Senior Extension Program has won a Golden Bell Award from the California School Boards Association (CSBA). SCOE received the award on December 2 at the 39th annual CSBA conference, held in San Diego. Senior Extension also won a CSBA Apple for Excellence award, which recognizes outstanding programs administered by county offices of education.
The Senior Extension Program allows students to extend the amount of time they can remain in high school, with the goal of increasing graduation rates. With a more personalized approach and staff to address their individual needs, students are more likely to complete high school and transition to college, military service, or the workforce.
“Students want to complete their high school education, but sometimes life’s challenges are just too great for them. We’re so proud of our Senior Extension Program because it’s giving more young people the opportunity to succeed in life,” said Sacramento County Board of Education President Karina Talamantes.
“Senior Extension is an innovative program where our students get extra support, mentoring, career development, and training—as well as an entire team of teachers and staff cheering them on every step of the way,” said Sacramento County Superintendent of Schools David W. Gordon.
A panel of judges—experts from school districts and county offices of education across the state—reviewed written Golden Bell entries. On-site validators then assessed the programs in action. The winners demonstrated how they are addressing student needs in categories like equity and access, school culture and safety, technology, and wellness.
Additional information about the Golden Bell awards and the winners is available online.