Veterans, internees sought for retroactive high school diploma program
By Santa Ynez Valley Star Staff · Tue Mar 17 2020
County education office to hold Operation Recognition ceremony in April
Staff Report
Between the 1940s and 1970s, thousands of students left high school to serve in the United States Armed Forces. During World War II, over 100,000 individuals were interned in relocation camps across the United States.
Some of these veterans and internees could not finish high school or receive their diplomas due to their military service or internment. Veterans and previously interned citizens may be granted retroactive high school diplomas by the Santa Barbara County Education Office (SBCEO) through the Operation Recognition program.
The Santa Barbara County Board of Education and SBCEO invite veterans and individuals who meet the eligibility requirements to apply for their high school diplomas and participate in the Operation Recognition graduation ceremony on April 7, 2022. Individuals may apply posthumously for deceased family members who meet the criteria.
“We are honored to recognize the service and sacrifice of these individuals by presenting them with their diplomas,” said Santa Barbara County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Susan Salcido. “In 2019, six distinguished veterans received their high school diplomas, and we look forward to celebrating the Class of 2022.”
The eligibility criteria, as established by the California Education Code, are: