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Central Region

Andrew Gallegos
High School Diploma Graduate
Madera Adult School

Andrew Gallegos overcame a challenging past marked by negative influences, lack of support, and substance abuse. He committed to change, seeking recovery and recognizing the need for education.

At Madera Adult School, he pursued his high school diploma while balancing self-employment. His 2024 graduation, shared with his son, was a proud moment, especially as he was named Student of the Year.

Andrew is now a successful business owner and active community member, mentoring youth, serving his church, and assisting inmates. He credits Madera Adult School and its staff for their support, emphasizing the importance of seeking help when needed. His story demonstrates the transformative power of education and resilience.

Central Region

Julian Rivera
High School Diploma Graduate
Fresno Adult School

Fighting has been part of Julian Rivera's life since childhood, growing up without parents and living with his grandmother in a poor family in El Salvador. He excelled in mathematics, academics, and sports from a young age. His love for learning and curiosity about how things worked drove him to overcome his challenges, graduating high school and attending university.

Julian became a Civil Engineer, married, and started a family. After 5 years in his profession, violence in his country forced his family to move to the United States, where he worked in the fields. He enrolled in Fresno Adult School to break the language barrier, meeting inspiring teachers and supportive people. He then earned the HiSET diploma and had the honor of giving delivered the graduation speech in English.

With guidance from counselor Oscar Hinojosa, Julian enrolled in college full-time and aims to take classes related to what he dreams of becoming while improving his English.

Central Region

Maria Sanchez
High School Diploma Graduate
Clovis Adult School

Maria Sanchez, 34, is a mother of three with another child on the way, whose journey reflects resilience and transformation. After battling addiction for 12 years, she lost custody of her son along with her family’s trust, home, and job, eventually ending up on the streets.

Determined to change, she entered inpatient rehab, overcame withdrawal and depression, and achieved sobriety with the support of therapists and counselors. She moved to Fresno to rebuild her life, and realizing the importance of education, she enrolled at Clovis Adult School, earning her diploma in just nine months with the help of dedicated teachers and counselors.

Recognized for her hard work through scholarships, she decided to pursue a college degree in business and accounting, aiming to become her own boss and create a better future for her family. Now, Maria hopes to inspire others by encouraging them to seek help and reminding them that with determination and support, transformation is possible.

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