SACRAMENTO, Calif. (July 3, 2025) – Highlands Community Charter and Technical Schools and the California Innovative Career Academy (CICA) celebrated the graduation of 1,301 adult learners last week across two powerful ceremonies — highlighting the life-changing impact of second chances and educational opportunity for immigrant and re-entry communities.
At CICA, 514 students graduated, including 236 individuals born outside the United States. At Highlands, 787 students earned their diplomas — of which 682 are immigrants or refugees, many of whom learned English, earned career credentials, and completed their high school education all while supporting families and holding jobs.
“This is what California is all about — opportunity, redemption, and the power of education to transform lives,” said Jonathan Raymond, Executive Director of Highlands. “These are not just numbers. These are mothers, fathers, caregivers, and workers who never gave up. Today, they walk across the stage not just as graduates — but as role models, leaders, and contributors to our state’s economy and communities. If you care about immigrants and second chances, then you care about the work being done at Highlands.”
Highlands and CICA serve adult students who have been historically left behind by traditional systems — including new immigrants, refugees, working parents, and returning citizens seeking a second chance. The schools offer free high school diploma programs, English language learning, and job training that lead to meaningful careers and economic mobility.
“Highlands didn’t just give me the opportunity to earn my high school diploma, they gave me a chance at a real future,” said Highlands graduate Danielle Ayers. “Because of the love, faith, and belief Highlands poured into me, I was also able to successfully obtain my CDL A license and step into a new career.”
Highlands continues to implement sweeping reforms and strengthen accountability while staying laser-focused on its mission: delivering opportunity to those who need it most.
