A moment of triumph unfolded at Laney College’s graduation ceremony last Friday as 15 students from the Oakland Unified School District’s Young Adult Program (YAP) were recognized for earning their Certificate of Foundations of Art—a milestone made possible through a powerful and growing partnership between OUSD and the Peralta Community College District, especially Laney College.
Of the 15 students awarded the certificate, 10 proudly walked across the graduation stage—many for the first time in their lives. For these students, many of whom have faced barriers in both education and access, the ceremony was more than symbolic. It represented achievement, inclusion, and a public affirmation of their abilities and potential.
The Foundations of Art Certificate is part of a broader collaboration between Laney College and the Young Adult Program, which serves young adults with disabilities ages 18–22 through OUSD’s special education department. Over the past six years, certificates have been developed across three departments, with this year’s Foundations of Art Certificate cohort being the largest to date.
The curriculum allows students to explore artistic expression while gaining college experience, community connection, and confidence. Many participants had never imagined themselves attending college, let alone graduating from a recognized program.
Laney College and OUSD continue to work closely to expand pathways for Young Adult Program students, and the success of this year’s graduating cohort is a testament to what thoughtful collaboration and inclusive education can achieve.
As Dr. Failing noted,
“These numbers will grow. This is just the beginning of what’s possible when we meet students where they are and provide the support they deserve.”
For more information, visit the Young Adult Program (YAP)
To learn more about Student Accessibility Services at Laney College, visit laney.edu/sas