Umatilla High School is pleased to announce that eight seniors have earned their Associate of Arts Oregon Transfer (AAOT) degrees. The students who earned their AAOT degrees are Alexis Armenta, Braelyn Cragun, Miles Franks, Diego Loera, Dayami Nava, Angel Quiroga-Vazquez, Maddisyn Rico, and Jonathan Rome.
These graduates will receive their diplomas on June 12th at the Blue Mountain Community College (BMCC) graduation ceremony.
Since 2012, Umatilla High School has been dedicated to offering college opportunities to its students. Superintendent Heidi Sipe credits the School Board for their initial support in funding the program and their steadfast commitment to maintaining and growing funding levels to support student success.
“Without the dedication of the School Board, this opportunity for students would not exist. They recognize the importance of access to college opportunities and have remained committed to supporting students as they pursue career certifications and transfer degrees,” said Superintendent Heidi Sipe.
Umatilla School District pays for the full costs of tuition and books for students and works with Blue Mountain Community College, Eastern Oregon University, Rogue River Community College, and Arizona State University to allow a multitude of options for students. Umatilla High also partners with Good Shepherd Hospital, Amazon Web Services, and Umatilla Rural Fire Protection District to help develop pipeline programs that are helping guide students towards credit-earning opportunities, launching them into their future careers.
Sipe also gives kudos to Principal Bob Lorence, UHS Counselor Dee Lorence, and the UHS teaching Staff.
“Bob and Dee have been a dynamic duo at UHS when it comes to introducing students to college opportunities early in their high school career and making sure students are well supported in their credit-earning path. Many UHS teachers teach dual credit classes and encourage students to challenge themselves while providing support for them as they work through their college coursework,” said Sipe.