Gavin Scott completed the requirements for the General Equivalent Diploma on December 21, and participated in a virtual graduation ceremony last week.
Scott participated in Martinsville City Schools’ Individual Student Alternative Education Plan (Aspire to Success) Program, or ISAEP, which prepares secondary students who are at least 16 years of age, enrolled in high school programs, and who are having difficulty finding success in a regular classroom environment to take the Tests of General Educational Development (GED) while developing career and technical education skills. The Martinsville ISAEP program is one of 131 programs operating in the state.
The graduation ceremony was filled with congratulatory sentiments and words of encouragement from school administrators and Scott’s teachers. Joanne Galloway, coordinator of Alternative Programs, facilitated the virtual graduation.
Rosabelle Holmes, the former coordinator of Alternative Programs, began the process with Scott. “I am so proud of you. Earning a GED diploma is not easy, and you have overcome to complete your goal. I am thrilled for you. Continue on because this doesn’t have to stop here.”
“This is your day, it’s all about you,” said Executive Director of Special Education and Student Services Dr. Paulette Simington. “This day is about you sticking to your goals of completing your high school requirements to complete your GED. This day is about your investment in yourself to create a better future and you have what it takes to do so.”
Schools Superintendent Dr. Zeb Talley focused on the resiliency it took to achieve this milestone. “You have overcome a lot of odds and have been patient. Congratulations and kudos to you for having the resilience and drive to see this accomplishment through. I know you have had obstacles, but we are so proud of your success.”
“It’s really easy to get to where you want to be when the path is straight and clear,” said Assistant Superintendent of Instruction Angilee Downing. “When the path is filled with twists, turns, and challenges, it takes skill to maneuver through it and you have shown your ability to successfully navigate through a challenge. You can do anything you set your mind to, as you’ve shown us all.”
Scott’s instructor, Helen Howell, said, “Gavin showed up every day and worked extremely hard. To see another student graduate, it extremely rewarding.”
Principal Aji Dixon discussed the importance of focusing on passions and working hard to make them a reality. “Find whatever it is you like to do, work, and do that. Immersing yourself in your passion doesn’t feel like work and will be extremely rewarding, you will find success, and love what you do. I am excited for you and your future.”
