Come Back Kids Program is Producing Graduates

The Riverside County Office of Education’s Come Back Kids (CBK) Program graduated 26 students in its first year of operation. CBK originated and began serving drop out students at Mt. San Jacinto Regional Learning Center in late summer 2008 and now serves several hundred students across Riverside County.

On June 8th, the first CBK graduating class held their heads high as they marched toward the stage as the traditional Pomp and Circumstance filled the air. These students were awarded diplomas in front of proud families, teachers, administrators, board members, and friends. The event was hosted at the Chaparral High School Performing Arts Center.

“For many of us who walked away from high school in past years for one reason or another, this is a day we have looked forward to,” explained one CBK grad. “Most of us just needed another chance and another place to get our act together. Most of us are already enrolled in college and have jobs. We’re on our way now.”

“This event marks a day in history for our CBK program,” explained Debra Sacks, RCOE Coordinator Principal. “When you consider how many students we have enrolled, set up Individual Learning Plans, and encouraged to move forward in their lives, these 26 young people remind us that we are doing the right work,” concluded Sacks.

Thanks to the CBK team of educators from the Riverside County Office of Education who have developed the Come Back Kids Program as well as representatives from Mt. San Jacinto College, Riverside Community College, College of the Desert, and California Family Life Center.