NEWPORT, Tenn. — For many, graduation is a day they never forget. But for Cocke County students, it was a day they weren't sure would ever come.
“These students are usually students who fell behind for one reason or another, and they came and caught up and finished up their high school diploma while working with us,” said Brian Douglas, the student support supervisor for the county.
The Gateway Programs in Cocke County provide students with an alternative learning environment to earn their degree if they face difficulties in their previous learning environments.
“A lot of these kids worked really hard, overcame a lot of different obstacles to get in this position,” Douglas said.
One of those obstacles was devastating flooding that struck the county just days before the original graduation date. The flood, which was described as a "500-year event," caused significant delays.
“If you're ever asked what year you graduated, you can say it was the year of the 500-year flood,” Douglas said.
More than two months later, these students finally had the chance to wear their cap and gown.
“My father, he never really graduated. So for me to be able to do it, it made me happy because I accomplished something,” said Quay Elliot, one of the graduates.
For many students, the programs were a lifeline and helped them stay on track when graduation felt out of reach. One parent described the impact on their child’s future.
“It’s actually been life-saving for her future. It made all the difference in the world,” said Lisa Dunn-Goan, a proud parent.
On the evening of the ceremony, 98 students from four different programs celebrated their hard-earned achievements, leaving the stage with diplomas and memories that will last a lifetime.
“You did this, and I’m proud of you,” said Dunn-Goan. “It’s over, this is the beginning step of your life, and I know that she is proud of herself.”