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Five students in blue and gold caps and gowns—four women and one young man— marched into a packed assembly hall on the campus of Ivy Tech to the strains of “Pomp and Circumstance,” with family and friends eager to capture photographs. It was hard to find a dry eye in the house. These students’ pride was evident as each spoke about personal challenges at the end of the ceremony. They mentioned homelessness, immigration status, unplanned pregnancies, criminal records, debt, unemployment and hunger. But, their real focus was on all of the support they received in their journey to reach this celebratory moment. Our DORS principal and teachers were lauded for their compassion, caring and encouragement. Counselors were credited for helping craft solutions to problems, and
“Often students come to us beaten down and stereotyped, which gives rise to a negative selfimage. I want them to see their tremendous self-worth and stop viewing themselves as ‘at-risk’ and instead see themselves as ‘atpromise’—which is exactly what they are. I want them to earn high school diplomas and continue reaching for their goals.” — Emily Masengale Principal, Christel House DORS
connecting students to needed resources. And, family support was also often cited as important. “I did this to be a good example for my children,” was a frequent refrain. Every graduate talked about hopes and dreams for the future. And, each had a clear plan. Now with high school diplomas, they have a solid platform upon which to build. Their futures reimagined: College credits, a steady job, a place to call home, a stable family and a respectable, dignified life.
CHARACTER + VALUES + CAREER PLANNING = SELF-SUFFICIENT, RESPONSIBLE CITIZENS
high school diploma is today the minimum academic qualification for most entry-level employment opportunities, and absolutely essential for advancement potential. Christel House DORS students have recognized the importance of this credential, and are keenly focused on their futures. Never was this more evident than at the first DORS graduation, held this past July.
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INCOME OVER A LIFETIME THAN A HIGH SCHOOL DROPOUT. (Above) DORS students study at Ivy Tech during the day and Christel House Academy South in the evenings.