The Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) celebrated the accomplishments of 14 high school graduates from its Migrant Education Program (MEP) - Region 10 with scholarships during an awards ceremony on Wednesday, July 10, 2024. Held at the LACOE Conference Center from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the event honored students from ten school districts within L.A. County.

Dr. Mirna Miranda-Welsh, MEP Project Director III, commenced the ceremony, which featured addresses from Mr. Ruben Valles, Chief Academic Officer, and Dr. Debra Duardo, Los Angeles County Superintendent of Schools. Pedro Hernandez, Senior Regional Recruiter for LACOE's MEP, delivered an impactful motivational speech, drawing from his 12-year journey with LACOE, including roles as Education Specialist and CAMP Intern, after joining the program at 19.

"Pedro's story deeply resonates with our students," Dr. Miranda-Welsh remarked. "His achievements within MEP and LACOE exemplify the possibilities when perseverance prevails, despite challenges."

The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Ramon Resa, whose life story as a former farmworker turned pediatrician is documented in "Told They Can't," a film presented by filmmakers Diane Wagner and Jesse Gift. Dr. Resa shared his experiences of overcoming adversity, inspiring the audience with his personal journey.

Among the scholarship recipients were students from districts such as:

• ABC Unified School District

• Antelope Valley Union High School District

• Azusa Unified School District

• El Monte Union High School District

• Hacienda La Puente Unified School District

• Lancaster School District

• Long Beach Unified School District

• Los Angeles Unified School District

• Lynwood Unified School District

• Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District

The ceremony included a presentation by the Regional Parent Advisory Council roundtable members and public comments, concluding with a community potluck.

About LACOE’s Migrant Education Program (MEP) - Region 10

The LACOE Migrant Education Program is a federally funded initiative that supports high-quality and comprehensive educational programs and services addressing the unique needs of migratory children. LACOE administers the Region 10 California Migrant Education Program, supporting 22 districts that serve more than 5,300 students.

To learn more, visit LACOE’s Migrant Education Program: https://www.lacoe.edu/services/accountability/migrant-education