Starkville High School Seniors Celebrate Dual Graduation

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Four Starkville High School seniors proudly hold their diplomas during the graduation ceremony.

News Summary

Four remarkable seniors from Starkville High School are set to graduate not only with their high school diplomas but also with Associate of Arts degrees from East Mississippi Community College. This milestone is a first for the school, achieved through a dual credit program that allows students to earn college credits while still in high school. Students Joseph Harper Coleman, Kaitlyn Ashley Cox, Daisha Gail Pierce, and Hasini Yamagowni exemplify hard work and determination, showcasing the benefits of community support and educational partnerships.

Starkville Students Achieve Double Graduation Glory!

Excitement is brewing in Starkville as four remarkable seniors from Starkville High School are on the brink of an extraordinary milestone! These ambitious students will not only be walking the stage to receive their high school diplomas, but they will also be celebrating the completion of an Associate of the Arts (AA) degree from East Mississippi Community College (EMCC). How amazing is that!

The Trailblazers

Meet the spirited quartet: Joseph Harper Coleman, Kaitlyn Ashley Cox, Daisha Gail Pierce, and Hasini Yamagowni. These young achievers are setting an inspiring example as they reach for the stars, demonstrating that hard work truly pays off. It’s not every day that you can snag a college degree while still in high school. This is a first for Starkville High School, marking a momentous occasion in the school’s history!

Partnerships Make It Happen

This academic triumph is made possible through the dual credit/dual enrollment options that are part of a beneficial partnership between the Starkville Oktibbeha Consolidated School District and EMCC. This collaboration creates wonderful opportunities for students to earn college credit while still attending high school, and it’s clear that the students have taken full advantage of this amazing chance.

What It Takes

To earn an AA degree, students must complete a minimum of 60 semester credit hours. The bright minds of Starkville High School have accomplished this by enrolling in over fifty different dual credit/dual enrollment courses. What does this mean, you ask? Well, students have the flexibility to choose from a variety of core subjects such as English Composition, Biology, and College Algebra. Additionally, they can dive into fun electives like Spanish, Music Appreciation, and plenty of Career and Technical Education options.

Path to Success

The dual enrollment program isn’t just a walk in the park. In order to enroll in these sought-after courses, students need to meet specific ACT score requirements in both math and English. Thankfully, Starkville High School provides numerous chances for students to tackle the ACT college entrance exam for free during school hours. Furthermore, ACT “bootcamps” during the district’s Jacket Thrive Intersession periods equip students with tips and strategies to achieve qualifying scores.

Learning Environments

Some of these enriching dual enrollment courses are even taught by dedicated district teachers right on the Starkville High School campus. However, students also have the options to further their studies at EMCC or explore virtual platforms, making education more accessible than ever.

Community Support Shines

Dr. Tony McGee, the Superintendent of Starkville Oktibbeha Consolidated School District, emphasized the significance of this achievement, highlighting the supportive environment that the high school staff fosters. It’s truly incredible to witness the teamwork and encouragement that makes such feats possible. Diligent students like Joseph, Kaitlyn, Daisha, and Hasini are a testament to what can be achieved when the community comes together to support education.

Celebrating Accomplishments

As May approaches, the anticipation for graduation intensifies! With diplomas from both Starkville High School and East Mississippi Community College in their hands, these students are ready to take on the world. It certainly speaks to the power of determination, collaborative initiatives, and the vibrant spirit of our young leaders. Congratulations to the four remarkable seniors and here’s to a bright future ahead!