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New Grads Celebrate the Dream No Longer Deferred

January 22, 2021 | Jeffrey Good
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For many, if not all, the 25 young women and men who graduated on January 21, a high school diploma once seemed a dream beyond their reach. But with perseverance, grit and support from the educators at St. Lucie Acceleration Academy, they realized that dream and strode into their brighter futures. But first, there was a celebration — here is a photo album from the big day.

“It’s a wonderful day,” Christopher Johnson’s grandmother said as he wrapped her in a hug.

“I’m so proud of him.”Jeremiah Denis-Laroche, member of the SLAA Class of 2021.Nathasha Radford and her baby girl.

“I did it for her.”Racquel Davis celebrated with Dr. Sunny Booker, Director of Alternative Education for St. Lucie Public Schools, and her mom, Denise. Dr. Booker said, “I’m smiling so big.” Denise said, “It’s been a long journey, but she didn’t give up.”SLAA Director Paige Latham joined the grads to celebrate.

Ready to Talk?

Acceleration Academies invites district superintendents and other school leaders to begin a dialog about to intervene on behalf of students who have fallen behind or left school.