Essex County College Student Inspires ‘Tears Of Joy’ From His Mom

MONTCLAIR, NJ — Khalid Branch knows what it’s like to dig deep and work hard to get what he wants. And when his name and photo was displayed during Essex County College’s 2021 virtual commencement ceremony, it brought “tears of joy” from his mother, Kyisha.

“Khalid worked so hard for this,” she said after last month’s ceremony. “It’s such an inspirational moment.”

According to spokespeople at Essex County College, the Montclair resident has overcome a series of obstacles on his way to graduation. At Montclair High School, where he played football, Branch was part of the district’s Community Based Instruction for special need students, making his mark as the only student from the program to earn an associate degree.

Now, with his degree in physical education in hand, Branch is getting ready to continue his studies at Montclair State University.

“My goal is to become an elementary school gym teacher,” he said.

Branch has already gotten a glimpse into what the job entails, according to Leslie Wallace, a transition teacher in the Montclair Public School District, who said he was recently able to intern at a local elementary school.

“Khalid worked very hard to achieve his goal, which was to attend college,” Wallace said.

Maria Mercado, the disabilities services coordinator at Essex County College, said Branch has been a “wonderful student” who has overcome much to get this far.

“He has made me so proud,” she added.

Branch’s mother said she hopes his achievements will inspire other students in his shoes to “push through any and all adversity.”

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