06.17.2016
Congratulations, Graduates!
It’s the middle of graduation season here at Treehouse and excitement is in the air. This month, more than 60 members of the Class of 2016 and our persistent 5th year seniors will walk across the stage to accept their high school diplomas.
Many of our seniors have overcome great barriers to make it this point. And while their accomplishments during high school are worthy of great celebration, I’m just as excited about the plans they have created with their Education Specialists for a bright future. I’ve asked my team of Education Specialists to introduce you to a few of our graduates, as well as share the moments that have made them particularly proud this year. I hope you enjoy reading through them as much as I did!
Leroy
Renton High School
Next Steps: Leroy is heading to Grays Harbor College to wrestle. After earning his AA, he plans to transfer to Boise State to continue wrestling and major in Music Education.
“I am so proud of you for following your goals this year and not letting anyone getting in your way as you accomplished them.”
-Taji Ellis, Education Specialist
Shirley
Seattle World School
Next Steps: After being awarded the MLK, Nora Stone ELL, and Friends of Seattle World School Scholarships, Shirley will attend South Seattle College to study either interior design or social justice.
“Shirley, I am so proud of how positive and level-headed you’ve been during your senior year. You jumped right into college and scholarship apps and it has paid off! Best of luck as you continue to move towards your goals!”
-Lia Tamminen, Education Specialist
Justin
Auburn Senior High School
Next Steps: Heading to Green River College to get his AA degree with support from the Washington State Governor’s Scholarship.
”Justin, way to finish out senior year strong with the highest grades in your academic career. Congrats on graduating and good luck at GRC!”
-Devin Howell, Education Specialist
Eric
Tahoma Senior High Transition Program
Next Steps: Eric is planning to attend Puget Sound Skills Center for Culinary Arts training.
“Eric, I am so proud of the student and person you are. You are such a great role model and support to your peers in Special Olympics. You worked so hard this year to come to school fully prepared and ready to learn. Congratulations!”
-Skylar Cole, Education Specialist
Ellyse
Renton High School
Next Steps: With the support from Treehouse’s Little Wishes program, Ellyse will be working towards her career goals by enrolling in a 9-month internship with the Real Life Church Leadership Institute. She will also be working to save money for college where she plans to study to become a social worker or therapist.
“Ellyse, I am so proud of how hard you worked this year to get all C’s and above in your classes. Congrats on graduating!”
-Taji Ellis, Education Specialist
Jasmine
Interlake Senior High School
Next Steps: Jasmine is trying to decide between heading to community college and joining the Marines
“Jasmine, I am so proud of all you’ve accomplished this year. From graduating from the Washington Youth Academy to sharing your story at Treehouse’s luncheon, you have shown tremendous determination and courage this year! Your future is so bright!”
-Jamie Burns, Education Specialist
Shakila
Foster High School
Next Steps: Shakila received both the Governor’s Scholarship and a partial track and field scholarship from Western Washington University, where she’ll begin studying (and running) in the fall.
“Shakila: I am beyond proud of you and all that you have accomplished this year, from receiving a track scholarship to WWU to being chosen to be the student speaker at this year’s graduation. Your drive and passion for life is inspiring! Congratulations!”
-Natalie Prunty, Education Specialist
Taylor
Enumclaw High School
Next Steps: Taylor will attend Green River College for auto maintenance after his summer internship at Skills INC.
“Taylor, I am very proud of your personal growth this year. You’ve shown great responsibility and have accomplished a lot—a competitive Skills INC summer internship, the Governor’s Scholarship, B’s in your last high school courses, and a job at Dairy Queen. Congrats!”
-Skylar Cole, Education Specialist
Cherise
Garfield High School
Next Steps: Cherise will continue to work while attending SVI for her Medical Assistant Certification. She hopes to eventually join the Army.
“Cherise, I am so proud of your ability to advocate for yourself this year. Way to be accountable and make your own dreams happen!”
-Edward Brown, Education Specialist
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About the Author
As Associate Director of Education Program Services, Angela Griffin provides strategic leadership for Treehouse’s Graduation Success and Educational Advocacy programs. Under her leadership, the Education Services team helps foster youth unlock their potential, graduate from high school, and pave a path towards achieving their future goals.