On Tuesday evening, the Silver Spring Civic Center resonated with the sounds of celebration as 23 graduates, many of whom had previously dropped out of high school, proudly accepted their diplomas. The ceremony was a moment of triumph for these young individuals, who overcame significant challenges to earn their Maryland high school diplomas through GED tests.
Among the graduates was 22-year-old Julissa Mejia, who expressed her relief at reaching this milestone. "It took a long time for me to get here," she shared, highlighting her ambition to work as a nurse in a children's hospital. Mejia had withdrawn from high school during her senior year but managed to balance work and study with the support of the Latin American Youth Center.
The ceremony honored 29 individuals, including six who are set to take their final GED test this month. The Latin American Youth Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting young people in their transition to adulthood, played a crucial role in helping these graduates prepare for their exams and organize the graduation event.
State Labor Secretary Portia Wu, who delivered the keynote address, emphasized the importance of a high school diploma in providing access to further education and improved earning potential. "By taking these first steps, you have just opened so many doors and possibilities for yourself," Wu stated.
The Maryland 4th & Goal program, initiated in 2024, aims to support adults who have completed three of the four GED tests. It has successfully helped over 800 individuals, including those who graduated on Tuesday, to obtain their diplomas.
New graduate Stefany Gonzalez, an immigrant from Spain, shared her struggles with adapting to the U.S. school system. With encouragement from a counselor at Paint Branch High School and support from the Latin American Youth Center, she regained her confidence and is now pursuing her goal of becoming a veterinarian.
Emely Rodriguez, the education program manager at the youth center, noted their commitment to tailoring support to meet the unique needs of each student. The center continues to assist graduates like Jayden Tyndale, who faced personal hardships but found strength through his family and the center's programs.
As the ceremony concluded, Rodriguez assured the graduates of ongoing support. "We are here for you even beyond this step. You are a part of our community," she affirmed.
Reported by HarborBeat based on The Baltimore Banner (source).
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