Graduates paves the way for early college success at Alcona High School
(Photo Courtesy/Mike Beiermeister) Gerianna Herman talks with Principal Eddie Barber about the Mid/Early College Program on Friday afternoon.
Lincoln, Mich. — On Thursday night, hundreds crossed the stage at Alpena Community College for graduation.
It’s a celebration of hard work, determination and intelligence. One of those graduates is helping pave the way for high school students who want to get a jump start on their future. Gerianna Herman is the first student to graduate from both Alpena Community College and Alcona High School in the same year.
“People seeing that if they take these opportunities here at Alcona, they can be just as great and have just as man opportunities as I did,” said Herman.
The new Early Middle College Program at Alcona allows students to enroll early to get a head start on education. Herman is happy to inspire younger students.
“I’m so blessed and proud to be a role model at Alcona,” said Herman. “It’s not only coming from Alcona, it’s that this school, and the opportunities they’ve given me has made me this person.”
Students like Gerianna enroll for five years of education. The final year includes one class at Alcona and the rest at Alpena Community College. Principal Eddie Barber is happy to watch Gerianna receive 2 diplomas and help inspire others.
“All the teachers that have talked about her, the leadership skills that she has, surpasses all students here,” said Barber. “She’s definitely an honor to have, and for me to be able to say as the principal that Gerianna was one of my students is definitely an honor.”
