DeSoto ISD Dropout Recovery Program Graduates 46 More Students
(DESOTO, TX) — WINGS (Where I Now Gain Success) is the DeSoto ISD dropout prevention and recovery program launched in 2005 as an alternative program for students to attend self-paced courses and gain their diploma.
Each has his or her own story about why they didn’t finish traditional school, but thanks to the DeSoto ISD WINGS program, 46 more students are high school graduates following the Commencement Exercises on June 3, emceed by Kenzie Moore.
Starting with the traditional Pomp and Circumstance entrance, the DeSoto ISD WINGS graduation ceremony took place in the DeSoto High School Auditorium complete with the presentation of colors, keynote and student speakers and the presentation of diplomas.
The program included pledges led by graduate Raymundo Rodriguez Guzman, and a special greeting from DeSoto Mayor Curtistene McCowan.
Assistant Superintendent JoAnn Green-Rucker brought special recognition to WINGS staff and supporters, and Trustee Aubrey C. Hooper recognized fellow trustees present.
Four scholarships were presented to graduates by various organizations. Cameron Cole and Ashtin Jones earned Goodman Scholarships. Deja Scott earned the WINGS staff scholarship, and Karisma Hall earned the new American Business Women Scholarship.
An original poem was read by graduate Isis Bradley before student speaker Jayson Martinez, selected by his peers and staff, thanked the staff for all their support and his family.
Commencement speaker H.D. Webb, III, WINGS principal, congratulated the students on their perseverance and challenged them to continue their new path to success. He encouraged them to believe in their purpose, never give up, and believe in themselves.
Finally, graduates stepped across the stage and received their diplomas from Principal Webb and Superintendent David Harris.
Following the presentation to the last student, graduates were instructed to turn their tassels and join the ranks of alumni of DeSoto WINGS High School. With whoops and hollers from the crowd, graduates celebrated the completion of this journey and the commencement of the next phase of their lives.
