Class of 2025 Alternative Education Graduates Honored for Resilience, Growth

With proud families, friends, educators, and partners from Kern County Probation watching, the Class of 2025 from KCSOS’s Alternative Education programs crossed the stage this morning during a heartfelt commencement ceremony held at Valley Oaks Charter School in Bakersfield.

The ceremony embraced the theme “The Higher the Climb, the Better the View,” a nod to the personal and academic challenges these graduates have overcome on their path to success. This year’s student speakers were Devon Kennedy from CLC Tech and Johnny Hernandez from Redwood High School, who were selected to share reflections on their educational journeys. Both spoke to the determination it took to reach this point and expressed gratitude for the support they received along the way.

The event included recognition from educators and program leaders who praised the graduates for their persistence, courage, and growth. As each student accepted their diploma, the moment served as a powerful reminder of the importance of second chances and the life-changing impact of personalized support and guidance.