From challenges to triumph: Foster youth shine at 2025 senior celebration

San Bernardino County Children and Family Services hosted their Annual Senior Celebration, a heartwarming event dedicated to honoring and celebrating the youth in foster care who have graduated from high school. CFS proudly announces that 220 San Bernardino County foster youth seniors graduated from high school this year.

The celebration began with remarks from Board of Supervisors Vice Chair and Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr., who congratulated the graduates, acknowledging the challenges they’ve overcome, reminding them to stay confident in their abilities and to keep working toward their goals.

CFS Director Jeany Glasgow followed with a message of encouragement, praising the graduates for their courage and determination. She spoke about the different challenges each youth has faced and encouraged them to keep believing in themselves as they move forward in life.

Lastly, keynote speaker Pastor B.J. Sims from The City Center SB and Kingdom Culture San Bernardino brought energy and encouragement to the celebration. He led the graduates in fun activities like a staring contest, jumping jacks and push-ups, not just for entertainment, but to show that even when something feels tough, it can still be overcome with effort and determination.

Laughter, dancing and excitement filled the room as graduates and their peers celebrated with photos, music and shared memories. The event also included a resource fair featuring county and community organizations that offered valuable tools and connections to help graduates navigate their next steps.

This year’s graduating class was full of inspiring youth. Among the many standout stories were those of Emile (valedictorian) and Kevion (salutatorian). Emile graduated from Excelsior Charter School with a 4.16 GPA and will attend UC San Diego. Kevion graduated from Henry Kaiser High School and is participating in the SPARK Internship Program with plans to continue his education. Their achievements exemplify the outstanding accomplishments of foster youth graduates.

“All these youth have a unique story, a narrative filled with trials and triumphs. They have proven that your future is shaped not by where you begin, but by the direction you take,” said Glasgow.

The 2025 Senior Celebration was more than a graduation; it honored each youth’s unique journey and celebrated their endless potential. The memorable event left all the graduates feeling proud, inspired and ready to embark on the next chapter of their lives.

Additional County Update News – July 17, 2025