Venture Academy celebrates the Class of 2018

On June 6, the Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District’s (PYLUSD) Adult Transition Program, known as Venture Academy, held its annual commencement ceremony in honor of the Class of 2018.

Following the graduates’ procession, Principal Kim Smith welcomed the PYLUSD Board of Education members and administrators in attendance, including Trustees Judi Carmona and Karin Freeman, as well as Superintendent, Dr. Greg Plutko, Assistant Superintendent, Kevin Lee, and Director of Instructional Support, Carrie Bisgard. Principal Smith also acknowledged the families, staff members, and most importantly, the school’s nine graduates attending the ceremony.

Principal Smith went on to discuss how proud she was of the nine graduates’ accomplishments working at local businesses such as TJ Maxx, Sears Outlet, Home Goods, and more. She noted how many students also had created personal portfolios, participated in mock job interviews, and completed job applications during their time in the academy. In addition to work skills, the students were also taught valuable life skills such as using public transportation, making simple purchases, and enjoying activities in the community.

“Whether students dream of living with family or living on their own someday, our goal for all students is to become the best, most independent version of themselves,” she shared.

After a brief video including fun pictures of the graduates over the years, Trustee Judi Carmona accepted Venture Academy’s Class of 2018 as having completed all mandatory program requirements. She also offered sincere words of encouragement and praise to the young adults.

Venture Academy teachers Ryan Shaw and Jamie Randall then presented each graduate with their certificate of completion and invited them on stage to shake hands with Trustees, District administrators, and teachers. Of note, student Maricarmen Jimenez received a $350 scholarship on behalf of the District’s Placentia-Linda Unified Managers (PLUM) to help her with her next venture in attending Fullerton Community College for her higher education.

Congratulations, Venture graduates!

Venture Academy Class of 2018
Carlo Alvizuri
Jacob Bolin
Alexander Fischer
Maricarmen Jimenez
Jose Martinez
Jesus Raygoza
Andrew Ritchie
Perla Torres
Eduardo Zavala