The United ISD Cherish Center celebrated achievement, growth, and new beginnings as 85 students were recognized during the Annual Awards and Recognition Ceremony held at the Student Activity Center Fine Arts Auditorium. The Special Education students were celebrated for success in work and life skills and for completing the Cherish Center transition program.

 

The event honored all the students ages 18 to 22 for their academic, vocational, behavioral, and life-skills accomplishments — while recognizing those who are moving on to the next chapter of their lives and careers.

 

“We are incredibly proud of all of our Cherish Center students and the growth, determination, and resilience they have demonstrated throughout their journey,” said Claudia Dovalina-Guzman, Executive Director of Special Education for United ISD. 

 

“We celebrate and congratulate our students who are transitioning to the next stage of their lives. While we will certainly miss seeing them at the Cherish Center, we are excited for the opportunities that lie ahead for them. We wish them continued success as they pursue their goals, embrace new experiences, and build bright futures alongside the love and support of their families," Dovalina added.

 

Families, friends, teachers, district leaders, and community supporters gathered to celebrate the students’ success. Among those in attendance were United ISD Superintendent Dr. Gerardo Cruz, district administrators, and members of the Special Education Department.

 

“This ceremony is a celebration of perseverance, growth, and achievement,” said Andrea Sanchez, United ISD Special Education Administrator at the Cherish Center. “Our students have worked hard to develop the skills they need to succeed in adulthood, and today we proudly recognize all they have accomplished.”

 

"The Cherish Center provides services for Special Education students who have completed their graduation requirements from United, United South, Alexander, or Johnson High Schools, as well as students who may enter the program from outside schools. They continue their vocational training as part of their transition to adulthood."

 

Following high school graduation, the families have the option to continue their student’s education at the Cherish Center for one to four additional years, where students receive instruction and training focused on employment readiness, independent living, and life skills.

 

Throughout their time at the Cherish Center, students gain valuable real-world experience through vocational placements in a variety of industries, including hospitality, retail, food service, education, and business environments. Students who complete the full four-year program may have the opportunity to work under as many as eight different supervisors across multiple career fields, helping them build confidence, workplace skills, and independence.

 

"We thank all of our local community partners for welcoming our students into their working environments where they gain valuable training and real world experience." said Dovalina. "Students have acquired valuable skills they will use as they continue to pursue employment." 

 

“Every day you have an opportunity to grow, to understand, to be kind, and to make the world a better place,” Sanchez told students during the ceremony. “No matter what others do around you, they can’t take that choice away.”

 

Students who completed the transition program were recognized first during the ceremony and received special honors for reaching this important milestone. In addition, several students earned individual awards recognizing outstanding achievement. Among them was Luis Antonio Lugo Jurado, recipient of the 2025-2026 Cherish Center Principal’s Award.

 

Addressing the graduates and award recipients, Sanchez encouraged them to embrace the future with confidence.

 

“I know there were many obstacles you had to overcome to get here today, but you did it!” Sanchez said. “Moving forward will be no different. There will be challenges, but the secret is not to see them as obstacles; they are opportunities.”

 

She also reminded students to pursue their passions and dreams.

“Start your small business, become an artist, get a part-time job that you love,” Sanchez said. “As you chase your dreams, use what your teachers have taught and let your light shine.”

 

Following the ceremony, students and their families participated in a special photo experience featuring backdrops representing UISD High Schools, along with a dedicated Cherish Center backdrop. The celebration continued with a reception at Falcon Bank Hall, where students and staff gathered to reflect on accomplishments and celebrate the exciting journeys ahead.

 

The Cherish Center’s mission is to empower students with the skills, experiences, and confidence needed to become productive, independent members of the community.

 

“Thank you for always brightening my day and the Cherish Center every day,” Sanchez told students. “We are proud of all you have achieved and look forward to seeing the incredible things you will accomplish in the future.”