EL MONTE – Nearly 100 students from the El Monte-Rosemead Adult School (EMRAS) launched toward new journeys after celebrating the culmination of their respective programs with end-of-year ceremonies.

A dozen aspiring nurses lit candles and devoted themselves to the care of others with the Nightingale Pledge as part of the vocational nursing program’s pinning ceremony on Dec. 15. On Dec. 21, 80 students in the English as a Second Language (ESL) program received certificates of completion.

“I am so incredibly proud of these students, who have dedicated countless hours to succeeding in these intense programs, learning the essential skills they need to thrive in the next chapter of their professional lives,” EMRAS Principal Dr. Deborah Kerr said. “We are pleased to have been part of their journeys.”

The vocational nursing program prepares students to take state nursing board exams, which qualify them to work in the field or continue their studies in a college-level registered nursing program.

Students will receive their graduation certificates after passing the state exam. EMRAS will continue to provide students with ongoing support and guidance as they await their examination dates.

ESL students have the opportunity to pursue a high school diploma, join a career technical education (CTE) program at EMRAS, advance in their careers or go to a community college. Depending on a variety of factors, students can finish the ESL program in about three years.
EMRAS offers adult students a variety of programs from which to choose, including courses in business, computers, medical occupations, trades and more.

“Our programs are constantly changing lives and contributing to the betterment of our residents and community,” Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga said. “Education is such an important and powerful tool that opens doors to opportunity. I am proud of our adult school students for having the fortitude and strength to return to school and pursue their goals, with our dedicated teachers and staff supporting them along the way.”

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

010918_EMUHSD_CEREMONIES1: A dozen vocational nursing students from the El Monte-Rosemead Adult School celebrated their completion of the intensive year-long program with a pinning ceremony on Dec. 15. The ceremony included students lighting lamps and reciting the Nightingale Pledge.

010918_EMUHSD_CEREMONIES2: Eighty students in the English as a Second Language (ESL) program received certificates of completion during a culmination ceremony on Dec. 21 at the El Monte High School Auditorium.