There were even more broad smiles than usual at KidWorks this June as we were filled with joy celebrating the graduates from our three centers:
27 of 48 preschoolers promoted to kindergarten or traditional kindergarten and 21 three-year-old preschoolers returning for a second preschool term.
17 eighth graders preparing to enter high school.
25 high school graduates.
11 college and university graduates (one associate degree, eight bachelor’s degrees and two master’s degrees).
“’Unleashing youth potential’ is KidWorks’ motto and the class of 2023 brings that statement to life,” says David Benavides, our CEO and Executive Director. “Each of these hard-working grads has a bright future ahead and KidWorks is honored to be part of their ongoing journey.”
Preschool Graduates
An impressive 48 of our youngest scholars participated in promotion ceremonies on June 13 at our Dan Donahue Center.
“While in our state-licensed preschool, they learned academically and developed socially, emotionally and physically,” says Idalia Galdamez, our Preschool Director.
This once-a-year celebration takes place each spring, and brings together the students, their families, preschool classroom volunteers and others.
Everyone cheered and smiled as the cap-and-gown clad preschoolers took the next important step in their academic careers.
The preschoolers marched in a parade, recited the pledge of allegiance, performed songs, recited their ABCs and proudly clutched well-earned diplomas. The event included a ceremony and reception, plus a beautiful rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner sung by Jessica Ellis, Site Director for our Dan Donahue Center. Everything was live streamed for those unable to attend.
Idalia thanked the KidWorks Parent Advisory Council and classroom volunteers for all their help over the past school term.
Idalia also expressed her gratitude to PBS SoCal for providing summer education kits so preschoolers can keep their minds active and ready for their upcoming kindergarten experience.
“We deeply appreciate the amazing preschool team of volunteers, interns and staff who lay the foundation for our littlest learners as they transition to elementary school,” Idalia says.
Middle, High School & College Grads
One of KidWorks’ most popular events is our annual Noche De Las Estrellas (Night of the Stars) gathering. Grads, families, friends and KidWorks staff joined together on June 9 at Santa Ana’s Calvary Church for the 2023 celebration.
“Noche De Las Estrellas represents the culmination of a year where our students worked so hard academically and it’s a chance to wish them well as they continue on their educational journey,” says Brenda Trujillo Sanchez, our College and Career Manager.
The 250 guests enjoyed a wonderful night that included:
A welcome speech delivered by Minda Barrera-Vargas, one of our preschool teachers.
A speech by Kimberly Santana, a 12th grade KidWorks student.
A speech by Camerina Martinez, the mother of Fabian Angel, a 12th grade KidWorks student.
Blessings given by Gerardo Magaña, our Senior Director of Programs.
Closing remarks by David Benavides, our CEO/Executive Director.
We are also grateful to Patrick’s Purpose Foundation for the scholarships they awarded to:
Fabian Angel
Alondra Chavez
Karla Gutierrez
Jasmin Ibarra
Jacqueline Nunez
Mario Orozco
Natalia Quezada
Please join us in congratulating each of the amazing 101 graduates. We also deeply thank the parents, volunteers, partners and others who have walked alongside our students for more than three decades.
By Glenn Leibowitz, volunteer writer