The last few years of high school were full of trials and testing so much so that Ramhad Walker of East St. Louis wanted to quit. But the 19-year-old thanked the staff of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville East St. Louis Charter High School for not giving up on him.
Walker was one of 35 graduating seniors who completed his 2014 Senior Exit Portfolio Presentations last week.
“It is an expectation of all those graduating to give Senior Exit Portfolio presentations,” said Gina Washington, SIUE East St. Louis Charter High School (CHS) director. “It is an opportunity for them to formally present what they have learned to a panel.
“It is also good practice for the students as they advance to college, and as they seek job opportunities.”
The Senior Exit Portfolio panel consists of CHS staff, faculty and advisory council members. Graduating seniors are required to have the following in their presentations:
• Resume
• Proof of career goals
• Proof of application to college and or the military
• Writing work samples
• English work samples
• Awards received
• Documentation of a minimum of 20 community service hours
“I learned how to deal with my problems and not run from them,” said Walker in response to
panelist’s question.
Walker told the panel that he loves engineering and construction, and has plans to pursue a career-related degree after working and establishing some financial stability for him and his family.
Bryanna Walker (no relation) wants to obtain a degree to become a school counselor to help children and families. “The counselor, faculty and staff at the Charter School helped me so much that I want to help others,” said the 18-year-old.
Time at CHS for John Wicks was well spent. “I’ve grown as a young adult,” Wicks said. “I’m ready for college.”
The 17-year-old said his most memorable occasion of his high school career was scoring 23 points on the ACT.
In his summation, Wicks recited a quotation from well-known motivational speaker Les Brown: “Most people fail in life not because they aimed too high and missed. Most people fail in life because they aimed too low and hit. And many don’t aim at all.”
Seniors presented a binder of their portfolio and gave oral presentations. After students gave their remarks, they were questioned by the review board. Then panel members offered advice and encouragement.
“We will always be here for you, Ramhad,” said a teary-eyed Kimberly Allen, CHS faculty associate and CHS senior class advisor. “And we’re expecting good things from you.”
Allen served as senior portfolio coordinator with Bridget Nelson. Nelson, CHS faculty associate (English), is also CHS senior class advisor.
CHS seniors’ graduation ceremony is at 6:30 p.m. Friday, May 16 at Our Lady of the Snows Church in Belleville.