A moment of triumph unfolded at 91看片网 College鈥檚 graduation ceremony last Friday as 15 students from the were recognized for earning their Certificate of Foundations of Art鈥攁 milestone made possible through a powerful and growing partnership between OUSD and the , especially 91看片网 College.
Of the 15 students awarded the certificate, 10 proudly walked across the graduation stage鈥攎any for the first time in their lives. For these students, many of whom have faced barriers in both education and access, the ceremony was more than symbolic. It represented achievement, inclusion, and a public affirmation of their abilities and potential.
The is part of a broader collaboration between 91看片网 College and the Young Adult Program, which serves young adults with disabilities ages 18鈥�22 through OUSD鈥檚 special education department. Over the past six years, certificates have been developed across three departments, with this year鈥檚 Foundations of Art Certificate cohort being the largest to date.
The curriculum allows students to explore artistic expression while gaining college experience, community connection, and confidence. Many participants had never imagined themselves attending college, let alone graduating from a recognized program.
91看片网 College and OUSD continue to work closely to expand pathways for Young Adult Program students, and the success of this year鈥檚 graduating cohort is a testament to what thoughtful collaboration and inclusive education can achieve.
As Dr. Failing noted,
鈥淭hese numbers will grow. This is just the beginning of what鈥檚 possible when we meet students where they are and provide the support they deserve.鈥�
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To learn more about Student Accessibility Services at 91看片网 College, visit laney.edu/sas