Graduation season at Osseo Area Schools kicked off June 2, with a commencement ceremony taking place at the Osseo Area Learning Center (OALC) for its 32 graduates of the class of 2023.
Due to the nature of the OALC’s program, many 2023 graduates completed their credits earlier in the school year and commemorated their achievement at the school before moving on to college or the working world. Seven graduates took part in the ceremony, while many who graduated earlier this year attended to celebrate.
Student speaker Nora Hanson cheered on her fellow graduates’ accomplishments and thanked the OALC staff for their support along the way.
“You all helped us realize learning is unique to every individual, and sometimes we need to do things differently than others to be just as successful,” she said. “None of us would be here graduating and receiving our diplomas without the help of the amazing, supportive and kind staff at the Osseo Area Learning Center.”
Hanson encouraged her classmates to use their diploma as a gateway to bigger, better opportunities and to be a light in the lives of people who need lifting up.
OALC teacher Zac Bair told the students to pursue what brings them happiness after high school and to use their knowledge to help other people.
“I’m genuinely proud of you guys for a lot of different reasons,” Bair told them. “All I really hope for you guys, regardless of what you choose to do, is to be happy. Find peace, fulfillment, and genuine human connection.”
