More than 100 Class of 2014 members from the district's alternative education programs celebrated a commitment to the goal of a high school diploma Thursday evening.
"Our graduates have worked hard to get here tonight," administrator Timothy Youngblood said. "There is something rare that this group has, and that is persistence."
Students from AdvancePath Academy, Utica Learning Academy and Utica Adult Education graduated in ceremonies held June 5 at Henry Ford II High School.
"You are here tonight as a Utica Community Schools success story," superintendent Dr. Christine Johns said.
Board of Education Vice President Gene Klida said the district honored the students for their "commitment, dedication and perseverance."
The more than 40 AdvancePath students are the fourth set of graduates in the school's history. Students from Adult Education and Utica Learning Academy were recognized for returning to finish their education, some of which were holding multiple jobs. One graduate earned a diploma at 52.
"I am still not satisfied. I want more," said student Darlene Anosh, of the Utica Adult Education.
AdvancePath Academy graduate Carmesha Leak told students that they can gain the confidence they earned through the persistence they have shown to start a new chapter of their life.
"It wasn't easy, but every day I turned a minor setback into a major comeback - or should I say new beginning," she said.
Utica Learning Academy graduate Jamie Crampton described how her life was brought back into focus through a high school diploma.
"My choice to fight for my education brought me here today," she said.
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