Four-year-old Emiliano stole the show at his graduation ceremony at El Colegio Early Childhood Education Center in Rohnert Park when he ditched the planned dance party to run into the arms of his dad, Jesus Camacho. The heartwarming moment was a stark contrast to two years ago when Emiliano first entered the Sonoma County Office of Education program for preschoolers with special education needs.
Emiliano, who travels all the way from Sonoma to attend classes at El Colegio, has made tremendous progress with the support of dedicated teachers, aides, and nurses. The graduation ceremony saw 13 students, including Emiliano, receive miniature scrolls symbolizing their achievements.
Among the staff members bidding farewell to the program was Laura Temple, a special education teacher with 23 years of experience. Temple, who will continue teaching at Sonoma State University, expressed her gratitude for being part of the students’ journey and helping unlock their potential.
Parents of the graduating students, such as Candice Routh and Allen Eastep, praised the program for the positive impact it had on their children. Routh shared how her daughter, Ryian, transformed from crying at the thought of leaving her to eagerly looking forward to school each day.
The graduation party marked a transition for the SCOE program, with school districts increasingly offering specialized education programs on their own campuses. This shift towards greater inclusivity and support for students with disabilities reflects California’s dedication to providing equal opportunities for all students.
As the program at the Rohnert Park site undergoes changes, families like the Camachos are grateful for the progress their children have made and look forward to the next chapter in their educational journey. The graduation ceremony was not just a celebration of achievements but also a testament to the dedication and impact of educators like Laura Temple and Eva Stillman, who have devoted their careers to helping children with special needs thrive.