Schools

Saul Grads Defy The Odds

The high school held its commencement ceremony Monday.

Although the odds seem to be stacked against students in the Philadelphia School District, Youth Commissioner Jordan Harris, said Saul High School's graduation ceremony Monday was a proud day for the city. 

"A lot of people will tell you that you are destined for failure because of where you come from, but I am here to tell you they are liars," he said. "You have just defied the odds."

Although graduation can bring with it feelings of uncertainty, Harris said that was not is not something that should slow them down. 

Find out what's happening in Roxborough-Manayunkwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

 "Fear not, because we all believe in you and we know you can do it," he said. "We need you to keep defying the odds and beating the statistics."

Auxiliary Principal Denise Johnson agreed.

Find out what's happening in Roxborough-Manayunkwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

 "Today is a joyous day," she said. "It's a day you can happily say you did it."

Although Johnson has only been the acting principal for five months, she said the class had a passion for learning, searched for equality and was dedicated to service. 

"I dare you to be different," she said. "I dare you to be great."

Johnson's challenge is one Valedictorian Shabria Shields says she is willing to accept because of the trials and tribulations the class overcame during their four years at the school.

She compared the students journey to the life of their "ag boots."

"We jumped over fences from crazy cows in those boots and chased baby cows and lamb who were determined to get killed on Henry Avenue in those boots, we were tortured in those boots," she said. "But like those boots we will endure. If you think the Class of 2011 will not succeed, you are sadly mistaken."

The graduates will be taking their place in the military, the workforce and colleges and universities including Penn State, Widener, Delaware, Temple, Chestnut Hill and Tuskegee. 

After the diplomas were handed out and the students became graduates, Russell Reyes, the class' president, closed the ceremony. 

"Always keep your head held high," he said. "Remember that the Class of 2011 will always be a family. This is not goodbye, it's see you later."


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here