Mr. Eloy Vasquez was drafted into the military in 1971, his junior year of high school. Because of that, he was unable to finish. Needless to say, because of Texas Education Code 28.0251, which allows school districts to award diplomas to veterans who are eligible, Vasquez was able to officially graduate from Judson High School and receive his diploma 50 years later. He is one of the first veterans Judson ISD issued a diploma by using this process. We are incredibly grateful for Vasquez’ service, but even more grateful to be a part of fulfilling his dream of being a high school graduate!
Texas Education Code 28.0251 states a school district may issue a high school diploma to a person who:
1. Is an honorably discharged member of the armed forces of the United States;
2. was schedule to graduate from high school:
A. after 1940and before 1975;or
B. after 1989; and
3. Left school after completing Grade 6 or higher, but before graduating from high school, to serve in:
A. World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Persian Gulf War, the Iraq War, or the war in Afghanistan; or
B. any other war formally declared by the United States, military engagement authorized by the United States Congress, military engagement authorized by a United Nations Security Council resolution and funded by the United States Congress, or conflict authorized by the president of the United States under the War Powers Resolution of 1973 (50 United States Code 1541 et seq.)
Are you a Veteran and did not receive your diploma, and you meet this criteria. If you are interested, please contact Monica Garcia and the Office of Student and Family Support Services for more information.
