Dear Bulldog Nation,

It is an incredible honor to write this address, not just as your principal, but as someone whose heart and soul have been shaped by this extraordinary school. COHEA has been my home for the past 16 years, a place where I first walked through the doors as a social studies teacher and the first director of student activities. Along this journey, I was fortunate to learn from Principal Alvarez, a leader whose passion for our school’s mission is both inspiring and unwavering. His dedication taught me that COHEA is more than just a school—it is a family bound by honor, respect, and loyalty. Familia.

I stand here today because a group of educators and mentors saw potential in me before I even saw it in myself. Their faith gave me the strength to grow, to lead, and to step into this role with purpose. In the same way, I see limitless potential in each of you, and I promise to believe in you, support you, and champion your voices.

Our legacy is one of perseverance, unity, and the belief that no student should fall through the cracks. At COHEA, we recognize that every student has a unique path, and our dedicated faculty and staff are here to help you develop the skills you need to succeed. Whether you are an athlete, a dancer, a cheerleader, a musician, a future first responder, or have a passion yet to be discovered, know that the possibilities for your future are endless. Our school is a place where talent is nurtured, passions are ignited, and dreams turn into reality. This is what makes COHEA special. This is what makes us Bulldog Nation.

COHEA is also a place where athletes thrive—with over 15 varsity athletic programs, our students learn discipline, teamwork, and the power of perseverance on and off the field. It’s a place where students can pave their own way to college through a wide variety of academic opportunities including Dual Enrollment, Advanced Placement (AP) Courses, the Cambridge AICE Program, and the AP Capstone Diploma. And it’s a place where students can prepare for their future careers through robust Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways, including Fire Fighting, EMT, EKG, Nursing, Digital Design, Legal Studies, and more.

COHEA is a beacon of hope for our community, a place where aspirations take flight and futures are built. Our journey is far from over—because at COHEA, we never stop striving for greatness. And as your principal, I am here to walk this path with you, every step of the way. Alongside my colleagues, the faculty and staff, we will continue to grow, to push boundaries, and to uphold the traditions that make this school a symbol of excellence.

With pride and determination,

Graciela Carbajosa, M.Ed.

Principal
COHEA Career & Collegiate Academy