Determination Leads to Diplomas for Six Ascension Parish Residents

Gonzales, LA – This year has been one of celebration for six Ascension Parish adults who earned an accredited high school diploma through the Excel Adult High School program at Ascension Parish Library. Four of those graduates recently took part in a graduation ceremony, celebrating an accomplishment that reflects months of hard work and determination.

“You have defied the odds by completing your high school diploma … Your achievement is an inspiration for others who are working toward the same goal,” said Carrie Goodall, assistant library director.

Every graduate’s story is different, but they each shared a goal of never giving up on their education.

“I wanted to do this for my grandma. She passed in 2019. That’s actually why I didn’t graduate – I was really down, so I’m doing this for her,” said Jaydn Wilson, who has enrolled at River Parishes Community College with the goal of becoming a graphic designer.

Whether their goal is getting into college, qualifying for promotions, or simply finishing something they started years ago, earning a high school diploma is an achievement worth celebrating.

Since Ascension Parish Library began offering the Excel Adult High School program in 2024, 23 adults have earned their diplomas, and another seven students are currently working toward graduation. The program represents investment in community and creates new opportunities for each graduate’s future. 

Participants in the program must live in Ascension Parish and have an Ascension Parish Library card (free at all library locations). Students complete coursework online at their own pace, with the support of success coaches and one-on-one tutoring.  Each student has 24 months to complete the program.

Visit myapl.org > Services > Excel Adult High School for information on how to enroll.

Pictured left to right: Jerome Robinson, Jadyn Wilson, Camryn Graves, Frandrell Gibson