On June 7, the Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District’s (PYLUSD) Adult Transition Program, known as Venture Academy, held its annual graduation ceremony in honor of the Class of 2023. The event took place at the PYLUSD Performing Arts Center in Placentia.
Following the graduates’ procession, Principal Rebecca Allan welcomed the dignitaries in attendance including Board President Shawn Youngblood, Trustee Marilyn Anderson, Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services Dr. Linda Adamson, Executive Director of Special Education Renee Gray, and Director of High Schools Gina Aguilar. She also acknowledged the families, staff members, and most importantly, the school’s 11 graduates attending the ceremony.
Students Ariana Gallardo, Evelyn Aldana, Stephanie Delgado, Brice Stone, and Melissa Ramirez took turns speaking and offering words of gratitude for the adult transition program and, overwhelmingly, the school’s staff. Ariana was also awarded a special scholarship from the Placentia Linda Unified Managers to help with her future goals.
Renee Gray, the district’s Executive Director of Special Education/SELPA, served as the ceremony’s keynote speaker and shared how proud she was of the graduates’ growth and accomplishments.
“It has been rewarding to watch each of you develop into more independent, young adults over the last four years. And we thank, all of you, our Venture family and friends, who share in this experience with your graduates this evening,” noted Gray.
She also shared how many students have developed skills in addition to work experience during their time at Venture, practicing valuable literacy skills for a successful life in society following school.
The audience then enjoyed a performance by Venture Academy’s choir under the direction of staff member Carmen Coindreau Gonzalez. In preparation, the students spent many afternoons with Ms. Gonzalez practicing their songs and building self-esteem.
President Youngblood then accepted Venture Academy’s Class of 2023 as having completed all mandatory program requirements. He also offered sincere words of encouragement and praise to the young adults.
To conclude the ceremony, Venture Academy teachers presented each graduate with their certificate of completion. Congratulations, graduates!
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