As South Lakes graduates filed out of the school’s gymnasium last Thursday, wearing their blue robes, family and friends met them in the school’s main hallway.
Carlene Boykins was crying as she embraced her daughter, Sheridan Meriwether. Boykins said she had two more children who will go through the graduation process.
"I’m feeling total elation and excitement," Boykins said. "She’s got a wonderful future ahead of her. Hard work pays off."
Veronica Owens had her picture taken with her son, graduate Melvin Owens. Melvin Owens is the first of Veronica Owens’ children to graduate high school.
"I’m just happy he made it," Veronica Owens said. "Now we’re trying to see if he’ll go into the army."
Graduate Anny Clenney said she wanted to leave the crowded school as soon as possible.
"I want to go home and party," Clenney said.