Here's What's Happening
Updated
On Saturday, May 17, 2025, the Clayton County Public Schools (CCPS) Homeless Education Department (HED) held its annual graduation celebration. Using Dr. Seuss’ book “Oh the Places You’ll Go,” the event honored the students who received Transitional Services, who persevered and will graduate as part of the Class of 2025 at their respective high schools.
Those assembled received warm welcomes from Ms. Felicia Brown, Assistant Superintendent for Student Support Services.
This year’s celebration featured inspirational remarks by V-103 On-Air Personality and Morrow High School alumnus, DJ Sturgess, and Ms. Chelsea Fearce, 2013 Valedictorian of Charles R. Drew High School. Ms. Fearce earned a 4.5 GPA while at Drew and received national recognition for this achievement despite the difficulty of homelessness. Throughout her comments, she referenced “Oh the Places You Will Go” as a guide to prepare for future challenges.
Nearly 20 members of the 80-student group were present for the ceremony at the CCPS Cafe in Jonesboro. They received a copy of Dr. Seuss’ book and other gifts from the Homeless Education Department. Graduating seniors who completed the Orange Duffel Bag Initiative program were presented with their orange graduation cords by program coach Mr. Luis Castro. Also present to offer congratulations and encouragement were Ms. Mary Baker, Vice Chair of the Clayton County Board of Education, representing District 6; Ms. Sabrina Hill, Board member representing District 7, and Mr. Mark Christmas, Board member representing District 2. Also present was Board member Dr. Jessie Goree, representing District 3.
A special highlight was the presentation of the Chelesa Fearce Scholarships. Now in its 11th year, the scholarship presentations were made even more special by the presence of Ms. Fearce and with the financial support of the East Point/College Park Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. who presented a $3,500 contribution to the Homeless Education Department earlier this year.
The scholarship recognizes students who model excellence in academic achievement as exemplified by Ms. Fearce. Dr. Goree, a member of the East Point/College Park Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and other sorority members honored the following students:
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Miss Gabrielle Wesson, Forest Park High School - $1,500
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Miss MaKenzie Smalls, Mt. Zion High School - $1,250
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Miss Kymoi Simms, Lovejoy High School - $750
CCPS congratulates these remarkable graduates for their courage and dedication to building a better tomorrow in earning their diplomas and wishes them the best as they enter a new chapter in their respective lives. The district salutes the Homeless Education Department, under the leadership of Ms. Sonis Davis, for providing years-long support for these students and for organizing such a tremendous event recognizing their achievements and encouraging them to seek a successful future.
To view photos of this special event, please use the following link: https://ccpscommunications.