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New school graduates 2
By SEAN BARRON
YOUNGSTOWN
Breanna Myers’ and Danielle Yeaton’s plans differ considerably, but both always will share a striking commonality: They overcame tremendous odds to receive high-school diplomas.
“I want to say ‘thank you’ to everybody. Without help from everyone, I wouldn’t be here today,” Yeaton said, referring to getting her diploma and plenty of hugs during Friday’s Mahoning County High School commencement ceremony at the school, 3321 Hudson Ave., on the city’s South Side.
Myers and Yeaton were the two graduates who made up the school’s Class of 2010. Around 100 fellow students, family members and friends attended the ceremony.
The high school, run in conjunction with the Mahoning County Juvenile Court, provides a safe, structured and supportive environment for at-risk students from throughout the county, including those who have dropped out of or been expelled from school.
The facility gives them an opportunity to recover academic credits and explore educational and vocational skills, according to its mission statement.
About 60 students in grades nine through 12 attend, noted Judge Theresa Dellick of the juvenile court.
Yeaton said she plans to work and relax this summer before enrolling in the fall in a one-year program at Raphael’s Beauty School in Boardman. Her ultimate goal is to own a cosmetology business, Yeaton said.
Smaller classes and greater individual attention proved beneficial to Yeaton, she added.
Furthering her education to work in home health-care, attending nursing school and preparing for motherhood are on the short- and long-term plates of Myers, who is expecting a baby in August.
Taking care of her grandmother influenced her to strive toward a long-term goal of becoming a registered nurse, Myers explained, adding that she’s unsure where she wants to go to school.
“I’m very proud of my daughter,” said Myers’ mother, Lori White. “She’s been through a lot, and I’m glad she’s accomplished what she has. She will be a success and a great mother, too.”
Judge Dellick, who was guest speaker, praised the graduates for consistently attending class, completing their schoolwork and studying while balancing other aspects of their lives.
The judge told Myers and Yeaton that success from earning their diplomas will pave the way for them to rise above challenges they will face. She also expressed appreciation for family and others who helped the young women.
“Thank you for supporting your children. That’s what we need in this world,” Judge Dellick added.
A global approach to learning is important, but education needs to have a greater individual focus, she said.
The ceremony also featured remarks by the Very Rev. James Barkett, director of faith-based programming with the Martin P. Joyce Juvenile Justice Center on East Scott Street.