2026 Graduate Spotlight: Andrew Hernandez, Barker Creek

Not only did Andrew walk at Barker Creek Community School’s graduation ceremony this past June, but he also walked at Olympic College’s graduation as a Running Start student receiving his Associate’s Degree.

While Andrew finished his high school career as a high-achieving student, his path to success was far from easy. 

Originally from Tustin, California, Andrew moved to Bremerton in seventh grade and enrolled in Barker Creek’s Virtual Academy (BCVA). During his first few years in BCVA, Andrew lacked the motivation and time management skills to navigate a self-paced curriculum. 

“I just had to learn how to push myself,” Andrew said.

Andrew credits BCVA teacher Ms. King with helping him develop the skills and confidence he needed to succeed. With her support, he grew both academically and personally, transforming into a motivated and capable student. Seeing Andrew’s potential, his counselor, Mr. Warren encouraged him to challenge himself even further by enrolling in Running Start at Olympic College.

Today Andrew’s two graduation ceremonies serve as a reminder of how far he has come. The young student who once struggled with motivation leaves Barker Creek with a high school diploma, an associate’s degree, and the confidence to take on whatever comes next.

Q&A

Plans after graduation: Attending Olympic College. He plans on enrolling into the Surgical Technician program and later work in the healthcare field. 

Greatest accomplishment in CK Schools: Finishing his associate’s degree with Running Start and graduating from Barker Creek with a Seal of Biliteracy in English and Spanish. 

Favorite memory in CK Schools: The end of the year barbeque his freshman year at BCVA, particularly hanging out with Ms. King and catching up. 

A piece of advice that’s stuck out to him: Get your work done.  

Where he sees herself in 20 years: Hopefully married and still working as a surgical technician.