RAHS 2021 Graduation Recap
This week the class of 2021 crossed the monumental finish line of graduating High School. Words cannot describe how proud we are of every graduate. After an extremely challenging year consisting of dueling pandemics of both COVID-19 and the rise of gun violence, plus added social unrest, these scholars were resilient overcame the odds. They continued through their educational journey to reach this important milestone. We cannot wait to see all that they will accomplish in the future.
Here are a few of the highlights from this year’s graduation celebrations.
2021 Keynote Speaker
Noni Causey, M.Ed Executive Director of BEAM Village and Chair of the Education Committee at the NAACP Portland Branch, gave the keynote speech at the 2021 Graduation ceremony for POIC + RAHS North Campus. Inspired by the theme of the school year, The 3 Ps (persistence, patience, and positivity), the speech began with a revelation to look past appearances and titles to the truth of who a person can be. Ms. Causey let students know of her past, sharing that she was a POIC student herself, " I was a POIC student. As a matter of fact, Rosemary Anderson was the Principal.” watch the whole inspirational speech here.
Celebrations!
POIC + RAHS middle school staff celebrated Middle School scholar's promotion to High School last Friday by holding a car parade! Staff went by each student's home to celebrate each of their success. Congrats scholars welcome to the next chapter in your education!
Campus Ceremonies
Through moments of joy juxtaposed with somber recognition of those classmates who could not cross the stage, each campus took time to celebrate the RAHS graduates.
Students and school staff members remained resilient and hopeful this year, something necessary during these extraordinary times. Thank you to all the teachers for your incredible work and for being able to adapt and help students reach the finish line.
