News Summary
San Diego County recently celebrated the graduation of 30 new students from the Library High School program at Cuyamaca College. This initiative offers an alternative educational path for individuals 19 and older, allowing them to earn diplomas at their own pace. Since 2016, the program has graduated 234 residents, providing valuable support and resources to those balancing work and family responsibilities. Graduates like Alicia Latoya Cassidy and Javien Devon Winford illustrate the program’s impact on overcoming personal challenges and pursuing new opportunities.
El Cajon, California – San Diego County celebrated the achievements of 30 new graduates during its sixth Library High School graduation ceremony held at Cuyamaca College on Thursday. The event marked a significant milestone for the program, which provides an alternative educational pathway for residents seeking to earn their high school diplomas.
The Library High School program accommodates individuals aged 19 and older, allowing them to graduate at their own pace while balancing work and family responsibilities. This flexibility is crucial as many students face life circumstances that prevent them from completing their education alongside their peers.
Since its establishment in 2016, the free online program has successfully graduated 234 County residents, with nearly 150 students currently enrolled. Participants in the Library High School program can complete their courses in as little as five months or extend their studies up to 18 months, depending on their personal circumstances and goals.
The program is a collaborative effort supported by the San Diego County and California State Libraries, helping to make education accessible to those who might otherwise struggle to find the time or resources to obtain a high school diploma.
Alicia Latoya Cassidy, one of the graduates, discovered the Library High School program while enrolling her children for library cards. Cassidy faced significant personal challenges, including experiences in foster care and juvenile detention, before making the decision to enroll in 2020. After taking a brief hiatus following her grandmother’s passing, she returned to the program with determination. While juggling a graveyard security job and caring for her four children, Cassidy completed her studies and is now planning to pursue a career as a medical coder.
Another graduate, Javien Devon Winford, joined the Library High School program in 2023 after having difficulties finding affordable options to earn his diploma. Inspired by his family, Winford is currently enrolled in a business program at San Diego City College, aiming to build a brighter future.
The Library High School program is making a significant impact by enabling graduates like Cassidy and Winford to pursue new opportunities. The personalized support offered by the program is critical in helping individuals navigate their educational journeys despite personal obstacles.
For those interested in learning more about the Library High School program or considering enrollment, further information is available through the official program website.
This graduation ceremony signifies the ongoing commitment of San Diego County to support the educational aspirations of its residents and provide valuable resources for those seeking to improve their futures.
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Additional Resources
- County News Center: Library High School Graduation
- Times of San Diego: Free Adult High School Graduation
- NBC San Diego: Grossmont Union High School Layoff Notices
- 10News: Community Voices Against Job Cuts
- Times of San Diego: Elimination of Librarians Opinion
- Wikipedia: High School
- Google Search: Education Resources
- Google Scholar: Educational Programs
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Alternative Education
- Google News: San Diego Education
