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Community Corner

Hillcrest High School Celebrates Early Graduates

Hillcrest High School Early Graduates present on their post-secondary plans, give advice, and discuss their time at the school.

Hillcrest High School Early Graduates pose with their diplomas after talking about their plans and time at the school at an early graduation ceremony
Hillcrest High School Early Graduates pose with their diplomas after talking about their plans and time at the school at an early graduation ceremony (Bremen High School District 228)

Hillcrest High School celebrated its early graduates on Friday, December 3, 2021, with a special graduation ceremony. Unlike a traditional ceremony, the 13 early graduates had the opportunity to give a presentation where they discussed their time at Hillcrest, post-secondary plans, and any advice they would give to incoming students.

Family and staff members were invited to the ceremony and had the pleasure of hearing from students and cheering them on. After the presentation, students were able to celebrate with a meal and treats provided by the school.

While graduates all had their own unique advice and perspectives to share, many of the students shared similar advice.

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For example, Hillcrest Graduates Mica Key and Jazmin Aguirre both advised incoming students to "set a personal goal."

Students also agreed that they wish they would have joined more clubs or activities, and taken advantage of more of the opportunities and resources that were available to them.

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One student, Dezarae Vauters said, "my advice is to try not to be popular and impress others. Just focus on being the best version of yourself."

Principal Clinton Alexander was so impressed by the presentations that he asked students to create a video sharing their advice. He hopes to show the video to incoming freshmen students during orientation.

He also reminded students to come back and visit the school to share their good news as they accomplish their goals and grow outside of high school.

Congratulations to the below Hillcrest High School early graduates:

  • Jazmin Aguirre - Navy and Art Business
  • Marcus Anderson - Accounting
  • Tyrie Griffin (did not present)
  • DeKyra Henderson - Entrepreneurship
  • Jamar Holiday - Automotive Welding
  • Tanajya Jefferson (did not present)
  • Mica Key - Psychology and/or Writing
  • Arjel Matthews - Barber, Medicine, Army, or Youtube Influencer
  • Christiana Popoola - Delivery Nurse/Nursing
  • Arianna Robinson - Nursing and/or Business
  • Keria Small - CNA then Pediatrician
  • Dezarae Vauters - Navy and Estetician

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