Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian was a guest speaker at the Phoenix Secondary Academy in Fresno on Wednesday, January 29, 2025. Students at the academy had been studying Armenian culture during the month of January and Prof. Der Mugrdechian was asked to give a presentation on Armenian culture and history.

More than forty students and staff of the Academy attended the morning talk. Prof. Der Mugrdechian divided his presentation into several parts, beginning with an overview of Armenian history and culture. Following the presentation, students asked a variety of questions about the Armenians and Armenian history.

Phoenix Secondary Academy is a unique educational program designed to meet the needs of students exhibiting behavioral challenges in grades 7 through 12 for Fresno Unified School District. The program creates an environment in which the staff builds strong relationships with students and parents and work to create positive learning experiences that support future success.

The academic program is structured to provide rigorous class offerings and intensive, focused support in areas of identified student need. Phoenix Secondary offers a wide range of electives including two Career Technical Education courses in Design and Marketing and Sustainable Agriculture.