Families, friends and school community stakeholders gathered to witness the graduation ceremony of more than 200 scholars from West Side Leadership Academy (WSLA). Held Sunday afternoon, the procession of students was led by Gary Schools Superintendent Dr. Yvonne Stokes.
“When I humbly accepted the role of superintendent of the Gary Schools last year, I immediately started visiting schools, so that I could meet the dynamic faculty and staff in every building. It wasn't long before I realized that I had been assigned to a special place with a whole lot of people who love children,” said Stokes, who joined the district July 1, 2024. “I gladly accepted the charge and have not looked back since that day. In fact, I have built a special bond with the seniors seated before you. They are talented, ambitious, energetic, and very serious about having their voices heard. I have met with them, supported them, counseled them and happily joined them on their journey to graduation.”
DaVeon Taylor was the class Valedictorian boasting a 5.0 GPA on a scale of 4.0. He will attend Indiana University in Bloomington where he will study biology with an ultimate goal of becoming an Orthodontist.
Alexandra Kret was the class Salutatorian and is headed to Indiana University Northwest to study nursing.
The keynote address was delivered by long-time educator Dr. Brian Dinkins who encouraged graduates to follow their dreams despite the odds.
Also in attendance supporting the graduates were Gary Mayor Eddie Melton, members of the Gary Community Schools Board of Trustees, the district’s Chief Leadership Team and WSLA administration.
“We wanted this to be a ceremony that the class of 2025 would never forget,” said Stokes. “They earned the right to cross this stage, and we showed up in great numbers to celebrate them.”
For more information about GCSC and to enroll your scholar, visit www.GarySchools.org.