UCS Adult Ed, Alternative Learning Center graduates celebrate "discipline, commitment and courage"

More than 100 graduates of the district's Adult Education and UCS Alternative Learning Center celebrated the dedication and hard work that underlined their journey to a high school diploma.

"Life is a journey, and sometimes the journey is not what you planned," Adult Education speaker Rahhad Matti said. "Our achievements required discipline, commitment and courage."

UCS Alternative Education Administrator Mark Kay said the graduates showed "inspiration, intergrity and initiative" in earning their UCS diplomas.

"You have traveled a road that has been far from safe and common," he said.

Adult Education and UCS Alternative Education students earned diplomas at ceremonies held June 9 at Henry Ford II High School.

In addressing the Class of 2016, Superintendent Dr. Christine Johns recognized the "hard work, resolve and grit" of the graduates.

She said: "All of you are a Utica Community Schools success story."

Board of Education Vice President Gene Klida told students that UCS staff and families "are here to honor you for your commitment to yourselves and your education."

Graduates were recognized for several achievements: $50,000 in scholarships and more than 30 students receiving honor cords for GPAs at 3.3 or higher.

"I stand here ready to take the next steps of my life and I know I will have great success," said Austin Kotas. "We have looked adversity in the face and won."

Student speaker Marina Mossa encouraged graduates to build their own doors to the future.

"We did make it happen," she said. "Opportunity is now knocking on our door."