{Can't view this email? Click here.}

We are thrilled to present this special graduation edition celebrating the achievements of the Class of 2025. In this issue, we honor our graduates' hard work, dedication and remarkable accomplishments. Join us as we reflect on their journey, celebrate standout moments and share inspiring stories that showcase diverse talents and bright futures.

Before they walked across the stage, Monroe High’s seniors came together for one epic sendoff—captured from above. Now, they’ve graduated and they’re ready to soar. Watch the video below.

The success of the Class of 2025 reflects the focused efforts of our principals, teachers, counselors and college and career readiness teams. This year, 3,506 graduates across 11 high schools submitted nearly 14,000 applications to close to 4,000 colleges. More than 2,800 students are continuing their journey in college, university or the military, and the class earned over $279 million in scholarships—clear evidence of their determination and the district’s commitment to preparing students for life after graduation.

UCPS proudly marks a historic milestone—the graduation of its first cohort of Dual Language Immersion (DLI) students. These trailblazing scholars began their journey as kindergartners at Shiloh Valley Elementary in 2012, entering an innovative program that combined rigorous academics with instruction in a second language and culture. Now, more than a decade later, they’ve crossed the graduation stage fluent in Spanish or Mandarin, equipped with global perspectives and ready to make their mark.

A vision realized

Dr. Scott Spencer, who helped establish the Spanish immersion program at Shiloh Elementary, has led all three of UCPS’s original Dual Language Immersion (DLI) schools.

“I feel a strong connection to that first cohort,” said Spencer. “The program has grown from three schools into a district-wide initiative—preparing students to be future-ready leaders and learners.”

Dr. Jay Jones, principal of Marvin Elementary when DLI launched, reflects on the program’s early days.

“We were essentially the seeds of academically engaging programming that now impacts so many families across UCPS,” said Jones. “It’s been incredibly gratifying to see it grow.”

Graduates reflect on growth and opportunity

Whether in Mandarin at Marvin Ridge High or Spanish at Sun Valley High, these graduates say DLI was more than language—it was life-shaping.

Celia Canata, a graduate of Marvin Ridge High, shared that the program helped shape her identity and confidence.

“Through years of immersion, we developed strong communication skills, cultural awareness, and the ability to navigate unfamiliar environments,” she said. “It even became the focus of our college essays.”

Of the five students who completed the Mandarin DLI program, four plan to major or minor in Chinese and combine it with international relations, business or science.

Annabelle Rodriguez said she plans to “bridge cultural divides” through writing, media and marketing.

At Sun Valley High, Spanish DLI graduates shared similar reflections:

Hailey Schleicher will be attending the Honors College at the University of North Carolina (UNC) at Wilmington, where she plans to study biology and Spanish. Drawing on their knowledge of the language, she and her classmate Anabeth Tomalis co-founded Español Especial while at Sun Valley—a Spanish club that supports special needs students at Shiloh Valley Elementary and Sun Valley Middle.

Coen DeCarlo will be attending UNC at Chapel Hill and majoring in applied sciences. He said, “Learning a new language was an invaluable experience that challenged me academically and without it, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

Kayla James, now preparing for a medical career, said the program “allowed me to meet so many people and learn about an incredible culture I hold deep in my heart.”

Anabeth Tomalis, who also earned her interpreter’s certificate, is attending UNC at Chapel Hill’s Kenan-Flagler Business School and majoring in business administration and exercise and sport science. “It sparked my curiosity and gave me a global perspective,” she said.

Benjamin Sandoval, who plans to attend Clarkson University, appreciated the cultural exposure and lifelong friendships the program offered.



Cameron Moore, pursuing radiologic technology, said DLI broadened his career options and helped him better connect with others.

Jason Bouajram will be attending UNC at Charlotte for architecture. He shared how learning Spanish alongside speaking Arabic at home deepened his understanding of cultures and fueled his desire to keep learning.

A legacy that lives on

This first graduating class leaves behind a powerful legacy—one of language, leadership and cultural connection. As they move into college, careers and new adventures, they carry the values of empathy, adaptability and global citizenship.

Congratulations to the inaugural graduates of the UCPS Dual Language Immersion program—Class of 2025. Their voices, in each language, will continue to inspire.

Before turning the page to their next chapter, graduates from each high school paused to reflect on their time in the district. In their “Dear UCPS” letters, they shared meaningful memories, lessons learned and gratitude for the people and experiences that shaped their journey. 

Click the image below to read each graduate’s letter.

Congratulations to all our graduates! 

Connect With Us