Three get diplomas through new on-line adult high school

By Myra Miller
myra.miller@eunicetoday.com

Three Eunice residents graduated Saturday from the Upper Lafayette Academy during its first graduation ceremony, held at the Word Ministries in Eunice.
The graduates are Geraldine Fontenot Monday, a grandmother; Victoria Lee Godfrey Evans, a hair dresser; and the third and youngest of the graduates, Katina Marie Jones. They received their high school diplomas on stage from Principal Dr. Edith P. White and President Dr. Homer White of the Upper Lafayette Academy.
The Upper Lafayette Academy is an Adult High School completion program. “It’s a flexible, non-resident educational diploma program... a virtual on line school,” said Dr. Homer White.
The Upper Lafayette Academy is a state-approved program which provides a means for adult learners, regardless of location, to have access to on-line educational opportunities that meet or exceed expectation for earning a high school diploma.
Dr. Homer White, a 1984 Eunice High grad, added, “We plant the seed of education...and believe in the program. We are hoping the program grows with more graduates each year. We believe in building lives ...it’s never too late to earn an education and a high school diploma.”
The Academy was established in 2011 and the program covers grades 8-12. the required 23 credits are needed upon graduation.
Dr. Edith White, also a 1984 Eunice High graduate, serves as principal . She added, “Upper Lafayette Academy recognizes that the quality of education we provide today will determine your quality of life tomorrow.
“Our foundation is built upon striving for a standard of excellence with a focus on charity, virtue and honesty. We provide a balance program of academics.
“Our administration takes pride in instilling in each student the confidence needed to succeed academically and spiritually.”
As each graduate received their diploma, they had an opportunity to speak of their experience.
Monday said, “It’s an honor to receive this diploma. I appreciate Dr. Homer and Dr. Edith for their educational program, for a grandmother like myself, to be able to learn and earn a high school diploma. They made it possible for me. I also thank God, family and friends for their support.”
Evans added, “I would like to extend a thank you to everyone who made this possible for me...my family, church family, and friends. This is only the beginning for me. I always wanted this educational degree, and waited to return and I am thankful.”
Jones extended an expression of thanks, “I want to thank God first of all. I always wanted my high school diploma. If you put your mind to learning ... you can accomplish it.”
A guest speaker during the program, Monica White Hyacinthe, a 1987 Eunice High graduate, and trustee of Upper Lafayette Academy, encouraged all to follow your dreams.
Hyacinthe, a 22-year US Navy instructor and clerical administrator, spoke of the importance of an education and to always have “a vision to succeed.”
Hyacinthe received an associate’s degree, a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree. “I encourage all ages, young and older alike, to take that first step.. continue, and to strive toward your goal..and to succeed.
Dr. Edith P. White also serves as principal at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic School in Lafayette; her husband, Dr. Homer White, is employed with the La. State Fire Marshal’s Office. Dr. Homer’s sister is Monica W. Hyacinthe.