Nearly 100 students from juvenile camps, halls and county community schools celebrated their graduation at the Walt Disney Concert Hall. The Operation Graduation ceremony recognized the incredible resilience, strength and academic achievements of these young people who have overcome incredible challenges to reach this milestone.

The event featured inspiring words from esteemed speakers who motivated the graduates. Dr. Debra Duardo, Los Angeles County Superintendent of Schools, shared her personal story of being a high school dropout and teen mom. She emphasized the importance of education and the power of perseverance. Dr. Duardo also commended faculty and family members for the critical role they play in supporting the graduates’ success. 

Father Greg Boyle, founder of Homeboy Industries and recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, told students to think of the graduation ceremony as not the place they come to, but rather it’s where they go from. Father Boyle encouraged graduates to use their education and life experiences to make a positive impact in the community. 

Fidel Rodriguez, champion for social justice and leader of the LA vs Hate Team, told graduates it’s ok to not know what they’re going to do next. He challenged the audience to make a commitment to keep in contact with at least one student who graduated.

Student Speaker Christannay Outlaw, a graduate of La Brea IS, shared this advice for graduates. “I'm sure every single one of us has endured hardships and setbacks, but it is never too late. Never too late to get your education and never too late to overcome hardships because we know they don’t last forever. We are living proof of that.” 

The Los Angeles County Board of Education Student Board Member Jocelyn Burgos recognized David Olivares, the 2024 Los Angeles County Office of Education’s Teacher of the Year. Burgos said Olivares “really relates to students on a personal level, understands what they are going through, and he created a very therapeutic classroom environment. This teacher of the year nominee has earned the respect and admiration of his students because of his knowledge, humor, caring demeanor, and positive attitude, along with his positive reinforcement.”

The ceremony included musical performances by Asher Bartfeld and dance performances by the Iseiri Isanigu Cultural Group. Additionally, the Los Angeles County Probation Department, Association of LA County Office School Administrators and LACOE’s African American Heritage Committee also presented scholarships to students during the ceremony.