The Floyd Academy recently celebrated the first members of the Class of 2021 with a mid-year curbside graduation ceremony to recognize the 20 students who put in the effort and overcame tremendous adversity to earn their high school diplomas. This milestone is usually celebrated with a luncheon for graduates and their families, but this year was held curbside due to the pandemic.

“We are incredibly proud of our graduates who worked so hard to earn their diplomas,” said John DeBenedetto, principal, Floyd Academy. “They recognized the importance of a high school diploma, and, despite incredibly challenging circumstances, put their noses to the grindstone to get it done.”

The students, with the right support from their educators at the Floyd Academy, overcame various challenges to reach this capstone of their K-12 academic careers, including the untimely passing of family members, homelessness, a house fire, anxiety and much more. Members of this year’s Class of 2021 have future plans that include going to college or a trade school, enlisting in the armed forces or transitioning directly into the workforce.

“Each student’s journey was different – some climbed over obstacles and others scaled mountains – but they all got to the finish line,” added Mr. DeBenedetto. “Their futures are bright and I look forward to all that is in store for them.”

Congratulations to the following students: Jasiya Brewer, Walter Brown, Mark Burks Jr., Stanley Cadet, Makayla Doran, Estefani Espana, Jeremiah Giraud, Tynae Hankins, Nisiah Jones, Anastasia Kite, Alexia Koukouras, Jelani McKay, Erik Neff, Anthony Nicholson, Sabrina Passaretti, Kiana Pope, Alysissa Reid, Dylan Rendon, Brileeana Rosario and Akrira Terry.       

About the Floyd Academy
The Floyd Academy is an alternative education program to help students succeed in a non-traditional school setting. Established in September 2016, the Floyd Academy serves approximately 75 students in grades 10 through 12, and provides a safe and nurturing environment that provides students with the opportunity to develop positive and trusting relationships. It is not punitive, students who have a desire to be successful and have faced challenges in their school and/or personal lives can apply. Participation in the Floyd Academy is a privilege, and, due to overwhelming interest and limited capacity, there is a waiting list. The district and community have shown overwhelming support for this program, and the Floyd Academy continues to work with students to help them achieve their goals.

Please enjoy this album of photos from the happy occasion below!