21st Century Charter grads a degree above rest
Families holding balloons and flowers erupted in applause and shouts as the Class of 2022 marched single file into the gym Monday at the 21st Century Charter School in Gary.
It looked like any other commencement, except many of these 86 inner city grads have racked up college degrees and credits. Nine received associate’s degrees May 14 from Ivy Tech Community College. On average, each student earned 22 college or career credits.
The accomplishment drew the attention of state Secretary of Education Katie Jenner who presented the keynote address in her sole graduation appearance this year.
ABC’s Good Morning America also recorded a portion of the event for a segment on high schoolers earning dual college credits.
Rutgers-bound senior Nalayah Young, 18, wore a GMA microphone during the ceremony. She earned an associate’s degree in business administration from Ivy Tech and plans to study management information systems, finance and journalism at the New Jersey university where she earned a scholarship.
She’s been at 21st Century since sixth grade. Her mother, Dana Young, picked the school simply because it was close to their home. She and Nalayah’s father, Harold Brown, couldn’t be happier now as their daughter finished in the top 5% of her class.
“I like that they gave her the opportunity to get college credits while getting a high school diploma,” said Dana Young.
Taking college courses changed the trajectory of her education.
“It has made an impact on me… to experience and make those decisions you have to make,” said Nalayah.
Before the ceremony, Jenner met with a few of the honor students to learn about their experiences and futures.
“What is really special is so many students earned CTE (Career Technical Education) certifications and associate degrees,” said Jenner. “We don’t see that at all schools across the state. Right away, more doors open for you.”
Both valedictorian Jameya Carter and salutatorian Armand Clayton said they want to study veterinary medicine. For now, both are headed to Indiana University Northwest.
“I felt like 21st Century is the place to be for me. There were great opportunities for students and they push us to be better,” said Carter.
In her keynote remarks, Jenner told the graduates to always surround themselves with people who make them better.
“And remember, it doesn’t have to be many... it’s quality, close relationships which matter most,” Jenner said.
She told the grads to remember their roots.
“There’s no doubt that this room is filled with people who love you… many of these individuals have given their blood, sweat, and tears to support you and to make sure you get to this point,” she said.
“No matter what your next step is or where you go next, always appreciate that you came from Gary, Indiana… and this community…”
Finally, she told them happiness is a conscious decision to survive daunting challenges.
“To live the most fulfilling and successful life, we must always seek happiness…and continue to work at it.”