County Library celebrates 40 Career Online High School graduates

"San Bernardino County Update", yellow arrowhead and "SBCounty.gov

Seven graduates and one faculty member celebrate their achievements against a starry backdrop accented with festive blue and gold balloons. — *San Bernardino County Library’s Career Online High School helps adults earn a free accredited diploma and move toward their goals.*

Caps, gowns and proud families filled the Fontana Lewis Library and Technology Center as the San Bernardino County Library celebrated 40 county residents who earned their high school diplomas through Career Online High School (COHS) during the program’s annual commencement ceremony on Thursday, Aug. 13.

Of the 40 students who earned an accredited high school diploma and career certificate during the past year, seven graduates participated in the ceremony, proudly crossing the stage as family, friends and library staff applauded their accomplishments.

The ceremony featured remarks from Valarie Hardie, who celebrated the graduates’ achievements and applauded the determination, resilience and hard work that helped them reach this important milestone.

“Every graduate we celebrate represents a story of perseverance, determination and possibility,” said County Librarian Melanie Orosco. “These graduates made the decision to invest in themselves and their futures, and we are incredibly proud to have played a part in helping them reach this milestone.”

Offered in partnership with the California State Library, COHS provides eligible adults who did not complete high school with the opportunity to earn an accredited diploma online at no cost while gaining career-focused skills for today’s workforce. Students complete coursework on a flexible schedule with academic support and success coaching throughout the program.

Since the program’s inception, nearly 260 San Bernardino County residents have earned their high school diplomas through COHS, opening doors to higher education, career advancement and greater economic mobility.

For the graduates who walked across the stage Thursday, the moment represented far more than receiving a diploma. It marked the achievement of a goal that may have once seemed out of reach and the beginning of a new chapter filled with opportunity.

The County Library remains committed to removing barriers to education and connecting residents with resources that support lifelong learning, workforce readiness and personal growth. COHS is one of the many ways the library provides residents with opportunities to invest in themselves and build brighter futures.

Adults interested in earning an accredited high school diploma through COHS can learn more at any of the library’s 32 branch locations or begin the enrollment process at library.sbcounty.gov/adults.

For more information about the San Bernardino County Library system, visit library.sbcounty.gov, call 909-387-2220 or follow us on Facebook or Instagram.

The San Bernardino County Library system is a dynamic network of 32 branch libraries that serve a diverse population over a vast geographic area. The County Library strives to provide equal access to information, technology, programs and services for all people who call San Bernardino County home.

Additional County Update News – August 20, 2026