OROVILLE — A full house of family, friends, and educators filled the Oroville State Theater Friday afternoon to celebrate the achievements of 64 graduates from Come Back Butte Charter School, operated by the Butte County Office of Education.

Created in 2016 by BCOE, Come Back Butte Charter School (CBBC) offers a pathway to a high school diploma for students seeking a flexible and supportive alternative to traditional school settings. Graduates ranged from ages 16 to 50, said CBBC Principal Janis Delgado, all with unique circumstances and life challenges to overcome en route to earning their diplomas. Some students even graduated having completed college units through Butte College, signified by black and gold cords.

Since its founding, 252 Butte County students have earned their high school diplomas through CBBC.

“That’s 252 stories of resilience, of grit, and of not giving up,” said Michelle Zevely, BCOE deputy superintendent of Student Programs and Educational Support.

Zevely addressed the graduates during the ceremony, reflecting on the school’s purpose and the determination it takes to finish.

“Every time we gather for graduation, I remember why this school was created,” Zevely said. “When we opened, our vision was to create a place for students who needed something different—a different pace, a different approach, a second or third chance.

“Come Back Butte Charter wasn’t built to fit students into a mold. It was built to meet students where they are and help them reach the same goal: completing high school.

“We know this wasn’t always easy. You had to show up, push through, and stay focused even when life threw you barriers. But you did it. You followed through. And that persistence is something no one can ever take from you.”

Among the graduates was student speaker Tobias Sanders, who shared his personal journey.

“My motivation was my family. I needed to prove to them that I could do it,” Sanders said, thanking Delgado and the faculty. “I have two daughters who are honor students, so I had to work hard to catch up fast. … I knew what I wanted to do, but I didn’t know how to do it. For people like me, who need that extra support or who just don’t know the steps to take, Come Back Butte is the best place to be.”

For more information about Come Back Butte Charter, including enrollment details, call (530) 712-2242 or visit https://comeback.bcoe.org.