Students participate in Baccalaureate Program

To recognize the graduating Class of 2023, Baccalaureate Service was held at the Elm Grove Missionary Baptist Church, Dr. R. C. Thomas, Pastor, Sunday, May 21, at 3 p.m. An estimated 16 classmates participated in the service. 

Nicola Gardere, Asst. Principal, served as MC. Class President Praiyer Jones welcomed the parents, friends, and administrators present to share the non-denominational memorable occasion. The Baccalaureate ceremony is usually held a few days prior to graduation. It offers a smaller, more intimate opportunity for the graduating class and their families to pause, reflect on this rite of passage, and celebrate the graduates’ achievements and perseverance.

Words of encouragement were shared by D’Odrick Jefferson. He encouraged the class to “Keep going and don’t give up” and to embrace setbacks.  

The keynote speaker was Pastor Marion Gude, AssistantMinister at Elm Grove. Minister Gude reminded the students that everything that is done, there is a consequence and to continue to practice treating others as they would want to be treated.

Zha’Mauryon Lofton thanked everyone for attending. Picture sessions and refreshments followed. Sponsors of the Baccalaureate were Elm Grove Baptist Church, Dr. Rev. R. C. Thomas, Church of Christ, Rev. John Armstrong, South Union Baptist Church, Rev. Norris D. Jackson, Marlin Missionary Baptist Church, Pastor Vincent Hartsfield, HEB-Marlin, and Walmart Marlin.