New Legacy Charter School Celebrates Second Year of Graduates, Welcomes 24 New Alumni
“Becoming a parent at a young age does not have to stop your education, or the education of your child,” said Jennifer Douglas, the Executive Director of New Legacy Charter School at this year’s graduation during her welcome address.
As the school year comes to a close, New Legacy celebrates their second round of graduates since opening their doors in August of 2015. In just two years, the graduation class size has almost tripled – with 24 students receiving diplomas during this year’s ceremony. According to Sarah Bridich, New Legacy’s Board President, all 24 graduates applied to college, and all were accepted.
This is a huge feat for the graduating class, who must balance school work with raising their children. Trisha Adams, part of this year’s graduating class, had two sons as a teenager, and received her high school diploma today. Adams spoke to the ceremony’s guests, describing her past struggles with homelessness, lack of food and a daily commute to school which required multiple bus transfers. Adams handled each and every setback in order to provide a better life for her sons, and herself.
New Legacy’s mission is to provide high school students with a challenging and engaging education and provide them with the skills necessary to lead a successful future for both themselves and their children. The charter school not only provides an excellent high school education, but a childcare and early learning facility for students’ children. The resounding message during the graduation ceremony was clear: having a child early in life does not have to negatively impact your future.
The ceremony’s Keynote speaker was Dr. Nate Easley, the President of Denver Scholarship Foundation. Today, Dr. Easley holds a masters and PHD in higher education, but explained to the graduates that like them, he was also a teen father. Dr. Easley has had an illustrious career, and his children are both pursuing equally successful careers of their own.
The graduation was inspiring to say the least, and we are very proud of both New Legacy and its newest round of graduates. We wish you the best for both you and your children as you prepare for college and your future careers. Best of luck!