OASIS honored its GED recipients with a graduation celebration on July 11.

Zonia Darnall, Ashanti Ellyson and Danny Hodges received their diplomas in front of family, friends and teachers and school staff.

“They have worked really hard to be here,” said OASIS teacher Jill Sherman. “It’s definitely not the easiest route.”

The students traveled to Oak Harbor and Mt. Vernon for the GED tests in science, social studies, English and math.

Passing the GED gives those who didn’t attend a standard high school setting the chance to earn their high school equivalency credential.

The mission of the OASIS K-12 alternative learning program is to work in partnership with families to enable all children to become creative, lifelong learners, critical thinkers and contributing members of society. Many of the family members in attendance thanked the teachers and administrators for their support.

“OASIS helped Ashanti realize that her path was okay,” said parent Sara Donnelly. “I am super grateful and proud.”

High school teacher Phil Comito acknowledged the students’ grit and ability to persevere in the face of challenges.

“Grit is not something you have once in your life and lose. You either have it or you don’t,” he said.