In what can only be described as a proud display of academic perseverance and accomplishment, Columbus City Schools celebrated 22 students at their Winter Commencement Ceremony. Pushing through the unique demands of their courses, these students now stand ready to face a world brimming with possibilities.
As put by Kathryn Moser, Deputy Superintendent of Academics at CCS, the ceremony is a "special and unique graduation." Moser highlighted the significance of the event for students who "have either completed requirements early or needed a little extra time and took the tough steps to complete their requirements" in a statement obtained by Columbus City Schools.
One stand-out graduate, Kamya Williams of Columbus Online Academy, is already dreaming big about her future endeavors. "I think one thing that Columbus City Schools has taught me is that preparation is key," Williams told Columbus City Schools. Demonstrating her readiness for the ongoing hustle, she added, "One percent every day will be 100% in 100 days."
Winter Commencement not only celebrates the varying journeys of these students but also reinforces the belief in the merit of every educational path taken. Whetstone High School Principal, Janet Routzong, described the shared aspiration for all students, saying, "What we really want for our kids is to see them graduate from high school with a plan for their next steps in life," according to her words captured by Columbus City Schools.
Names of the graduates were announced, honoring accomplishments across different high schools in the district. The list includes Christopher Balcer of Briggs High School, William Boyd from Northland High School, Landon Collier of West High School, and others who worked tirelessly to earn their diplomas amidst personal and academic challenges. The complete list of graduates can be found in CCS’s official announcement.
Sending the graduates forth, Columbus Board of Education President Michael Cole expressed his belief in the strength of these individuals. "My words of encouragement to our graduating class are that no matter what it is they feel like they are facing or going to face, all they need is within them. All they have to do is believe in their own possibilities," Cole remarked in a tone of confidence conveyed on the CCS website.
