Is the World Ready for LEAD’s Class of 2022?
LEAD seniors announce a new commitment to their futures at Senior Signing Day on Thursday, May 19th, at Belmont Curb Event Center.
Seniors at LEAD Academy High School and LEAD Southeast High School shared a pivotal milestone with their families, fellow students, and school leaders Thursday morning as they revealed the college, university, or career path they chose. Per tradition at LEAD, seniors kept their decisions under wraps until Senior Signing Day.
“Senior Signing Day is one of the best days of the year, and we are so excited to celebrate in person this year,” said LaVoe Mulgrew, head of LEAD Public Schools. “This event is the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. Our LEAD seniors should be proud of what they have accomplished. We are very proud of them.”
Senior Signing Day isn’t just for college-bound student athletes. The momentous occasion shines a light on all high school seniors, many of whom prevailed over difficult challenges in order to realize their dreams of going to college.
Tony Majors, principal at LEAD Academy High School, applauded the seniors’ determination to stay the course, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“They have faced adversity, they have a healthy curiosity about what is next, and a better understanding of who they are, having had to accept some things that were not in their control. Not to mention that they are just an incredible group of young people with big personalities and unlimited potential,” Majors said.
Every student at LEAD participates in an intensive seminar starting freshman year to help them choose the college, university, or career that best fits their needs.
Genevieve Byrd, principal at LEAD Southeast High School, praised the seniors for exemplifying the values and ideals of LEAD.
“I could not have asked for a better class of students to introduce me to LEAD Public Schools. They are ready for the world. The question should be, ‘Is the world ready for them?’ They have impacted our school in so many ways! I am excited and looking forward to seeing all the ways they impact our communities in years to come,” Byrd said.
Mayor John Cooper bestowed accolades on behalf of the city of Nashville, and he left the seniors with some advice as they take their next steps.
“Know that Nashville is proud of each of you, and I’m grateful to the teachers, faculty, and staff across the LEAD network. It truly takes a village to raise a child. As you prepare for the next phase of your life, I want to just leave you with some words from Michelle Obama, who championed College Signing Day while she was first lady. She said, ‘Don’t ever make decisions based on fear. Make decisions based on hope and possibility. Make decisions based on what should happen, not what shouldn’t.’”
To date, LEAD Academy High School and LEAD Southeast High School seniors have submitted more than 1,000 college applications.
Seniors at LEAD Academy High School averaged seven applications per student this year and earned more than $2.1 million in scholarships.
At LEAD Southeast High School, seniors averaged six applications per student this year and earned more than $1 million in scholarships.
Congratulations, Seniors!
