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District Linked Learning Academies Honored in 6th Annual Awards Ceremony
The District rolled out the red carpet for an evening of stars in the 6th Annual Academy Awards to honor 45 students in Linked Learning Pathways for their achievement, humanitarian efforts, and ambassadorship on Wednesday.
“This event is a showcase of our students in the college and career pathways of our program. It recognizes the honorees of our students as well as the fantastic instructors that we have in our pathways. This evening honors our students for a year-long worth of work and also the partnership that they have with the community and their business partners,” the District’s Linked Learning Executive Director Cecilia Mendoza said.
The evening took place at El Cerrito High School and began with a red carpet reception that included a courtyard of appetizers and opportunities to learn about each academy and mingle with the student stars.
“I’ve been in the academy for four years. The academies do such a great job in giving kids an extra [boost] to their education. It’s nice to have a night where we can really celebrate them.” Kym Kuzmic, an instructor for El Cerrito High School’s Media Academy, said.
In addition to distributing individual student awards, Superintendent Bruce Harter recognized four academy teams for their overall outstanding achievements. The teams honored were: Richmond High School’s Law Academy for distinction in Alignment of Career & College Goals; De Anza High School’s Information Technology & Communications Academy for distinction in Service Learning; Hercules High School’s Hospitality and International Tourism Academy for distinction in Provision of Work-Based Learning Opportunities, and Pinole Valley High School’s Law Academy for distinction in Improved Career Pathway Programs.
As many academy students prepare for graduation, Richmond High senior Eric Silva said receiving the academy award serves as a prelude to the big send-off.
“This is a step closer to being an adult. It’s a beginning start for everyone in the academy,” said Silva, the Ambassador Award recipient for Richmond High School’s Engineering Partnership Academy. Silva plans to pursue a degree in Engineering at San Jose State University in the Fall.
Maria Castaneda was among the many parents, families and supporters who came out to celebrate the honorees. Her daughter, Ariana, received the Humanitarian Award for her work in the Pinole Valley High School’s Health Academy.
“I’m so proud; this is the best feeling of the world,” Castaneda said.
Student ambassadors thanked business partners for their time and support to each academy. Chevron, ConnectEd, Junior Achievement, Holy Names University, Contra Costa County Office of Education, Contra Costa College, edFUND, The James Irvine Foundation, Project Lead The Way and The Whittier Educational Foundation were among the supporters acknowledged for their contributions.
See below for the evenings’ highlights in our photo recap.