A week after receiving their associate degrees from Temple College, Legacy Early College High School seniors earned their high school diplomas.
LECHS, a school within Taylor Independent School District that allows students to take college courses in high school, held its graduation ceremony Friday, May 17, at the Taylor ISD Event Center auditorium.
“As you stand on the threshold of the new chapter, it is essential to take a moment to reflect on your journey,” Superintendent Jennifer Garcia-Edwardsen said. “Each step you’ve taken, every challenge you’ve overcome has led you to this very moment of achievement. We are so proud of each and every one of you.”
Every student in the class has earned 40 to 64 hours of college credit already, the superintendent said.
There were 34 Phoenix students to graduate, 27 of which have received an associate degree with others listed as bound for careers or the military.
“This accomplishment speaks volumes about your dedication and commitment to academic excellence,” Garcia-Edwardsen said.
In addition, she said the class has contributed over 3,000 hours of community service.
Susan Guzmán-Treviño, Temple College’s provost, said the community college and school district came together 18 years ago to form a part- nership. She added they came together to provide opportunities for students who would excel if given the right type of resources and support.
“These graduates are students we all believe in,” Guzmán-Treviño said. “Students who have great potential, have had an amazing amount of support from their families, from friends, teachers and professors. The bar was set high for you, and you exceeded it.”
During the ceremony, 11 types of scholarships were given out to students to further their academic careers.
LECHS senior Axell Juan-Ceron was specifically honored for his enlistment to the United States Armed Forces.
Principal Erika Cantwell praised the students for believing in the unique program and school.
“Four years ago, you took a leap of faith, committed to your future success and chose to attend Legacy Early College High School,” Cantwell said. “We are so grateful that you did. Your time at Taylor ISD, as a Duck and as a Phoenix, is full of accomplishments. For that, we celebrate you today.”
The school’s valedictorian is Sofía Olguín and the salutatorian is Cade Shirocky.
