Alternative Learning Center, Adult Education graduation ceremony celebrates more than 110 UCS success stories

More than 110 Adult Education and Utica Alternative Learning Center graduates were honored for their focus to reach a major life goal – their high school diploma.

“Tonight we recognize the grit, determination and strength of every person on this stage,” Superintendent Dr. Christine Johns said. “Each graduate here is a Utica Community Schools success story.”

UCS Board of Education president said “a world of opportunity” was now open to the graduates.

“You take with you a diploma because of your hard work, perseverance and accomplishment,” she said.

More than 60 students graduated this year from the Utica Alternative Learning Center, earning more than $30,000 in scholarships.

“As we all have learned while being at this school, you can do anything you set your mind to,” said commencement speaker Alexandra Damman.

UALC graduate Kevin Robinson added that the program changed his attitude about school and he now has plans to attend Macomb Community College and the Police Academy.

“It is my desire to become a role model for my younger siblings and my community and show people that you can pull yourself up and become something,” Robinson said.

Supervisor Marc Kay noted that many of the 2017 graduates were graduating with honors, having completed an Advanced Placement course and taking classes at Macomb Community College while still at UALC.

“It is now critical to realize all of the possibilities before you,” he said.

The ceremony also honored approximately 50 graduates from the Adult Education program.

“To all of you who wonder if it is possible and worth it – I stand here as proof that it is possible and it is worth it,” said graduate Pawel Sliwowski.