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Homeless Student Graduates as Valedictorian
NEW ORLEANS (WDSU) – A valedictorian at a high school in New Orleans is being recognized for achieving good grades while being homeless.
“Despite where you are or the area you are in even though it might look bad, there are moments where there will be people who will give you a guiding hand, so take that opportunity,” Elijah Hogan said during his commencement speech.
Hogan graduated from Walter L. Cohen High School with a 3.89 GPA.
“There were a lot of obstacles I went through, but I was able to confront them head on,” Hogan said.
Along with the memory of his mother, who died when Hogan was 8, the graduating senior thanked the Covenant House during his speech and his family members who live out of state for their help along the way.
The Covenant House provides a place to stay for youth who are homeless. His case worker said organizers knew right away how bright Hogan was.
Hogan’s struggle was one he took in stride knowing his achievements would inspire his siblings and other youth that may find themselves in a similar situation.
“Don’t let things get you down. Don’t let it chain you down,” he said. “Let moments help you get through it.”
The Covenant House said at least five teens at the shelter graduate this year.
NEW ORLEANS (WDSU) – A valedictorian at a high school in New Orleans is being recognized for achieving good grades while being homeless.
“Despite where you are or the area you are in even though it might look bad, there are moments where there will be people who will give you a guiding hand, so take that opportunity,” Elijah Hogan said during his commencement speech.
Hogan graduated from Walter L. Cohen High School with a 3.89 GPA.
“There were a lot of obstacles I went through, but I was able to confront them head on,” Hogan said.
Along with the memory of his mother, who died when Hogan was 8, the graduating senior thanked the Covenant House during his speech and his family members who live out of state for their help along the way.
The Covenant House provides a place to stay for youth who are homeless. His case worker said organizers knew right away how bright Hogan was.
Hogan’s struggle was one he took in stride knowing his achievements would inspire his siblings and other youth that may find themselves in a similar situation.
“Don’t let things get you down. Don’t let it chain you down,” he said. “Let moments help you get through it.”
The Covenant House said at least five teens at the shelter graduate this year.