Randolph Early College High School Makes History with First Graduation

Fifty-nine high school students from Randolph County made history this week, becoming the first graduating class from the Randolph Early College High School located on Randolph Community College's Asheboro Campus.

Around 400 people gathered on the front lawn of RCC on May 19 to witness the occasion, as the students marched in wearing their red caps and gowns. Just one week earlier, at Randolph Community College's May 12 graduation, 29 of them had received Associate in Arts degrees.

In his remarks, RCC President Robert S. Shackleford Jr. told the audience that Randolph Early College High School had a record of academic excellence and was one of the top achieving high schools in North Carolina. He said, "This inaugural graduating class has set the bar very high for all classes to follow. And that bar is this: At the Randolph Early College High School, mediocrity is not acceptable; the pursuit of excellence is the standard."

The students heard from several speakers during the emotional ceremony, including the graduation address by Dail Moore, a former RECHS English teacher who retired last year. Virginia Montes Aviles gave the valedictory address, and Daleena Spainhour was the class salutatorian. Megan Cates, RECHS Student Government Association president, gave the senior address; and Christopher Leonard, SGA vice president, welcomed the crowd and introduced Moore. Also addressing the crowd was Randolph County Superintendant of Schools Donald Andrews.

For a list of graduates, go to http://www.randolph.edu/newevents/2010/2010-05-21.php.