KCPS Summer 2022 Graduates Driven, Dedicated
Congratulations to our Class of 2022 Middle College and Summer Academy graduates!
“Hard work truly does pay off,” said Annette McDonald, KCPS Extended Learning Coordinator for the Middle College program. “And a tearful good bye to Dr. Mark T. Bedell for always having students’ best interest in the forefront!”
See more Summer 2022 Middle College graduation photos on Flickr.
It was Dr. Bedell’s idea to create the program in partnership with Metropolitan Community College and the Full Employment Council. Middle College allows students who haven’t been successful in a traditional high school environment to attend classes at the MCC-Penn Valley campus. After receiving their high school diplomas, students can continue their educations at MCC for free. KCPS has graduated nearly 300 Middle College students since the program’s inception in 2018.
On Thursday, June 28, 2022, Middle College graduates presented Dr. Bedell with a “Superintendent of the Century” award in thanks for his support of the program.
Summer Academy Commencement
On Thursday, June 7, 2022, KCPS recognized our Class of 2022 Summer Academy graduates, all of whom had perfect attendance during this summer’s session.
Interim Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Collier recognized the grad’s drive and determination in her commencement speech.
“Life is full of disappointments. Life is full of setbacks. But you can decide you’re not going to dwell on the setbacks and instead focus on the next step,” she said, explaining that her own path to superintendent had been unexpected.
See more 2022 Summer Academy graduation photos on Flickr.
Dr. Collier reminded the Class of 2022 that they will not achieve success on anyone’s timeline but their own.
Congratulations to the Summer Academy Class of 2022!