Solomon Coggs-Butler and classmates graduates of St. Marcus School 8th Grade
Photos by Yvonne Kemp
On Saturday, May 26, 2024, Solomon Coggs-Butler and 40 other 8th-grade graduates had a party to celebrate moving on to high school.
His Mom, Priscilla E. Coggs-Jones was mistress of ceremonies to acknowledge students, parents, faith leaders, tutors, and educators for working collectively to get graduates to the finish line.
The graduation party was at Gordon Park Pavilion. Each graduate introduced themselves and shared where they would attend high school and their future aspirations.
Photos by Yvonne Kemp
Solomon Coggs-Butler thanked and congratulated everyone. “We made it, but the race has only begun; next is high school; let’s do it, graduates!”
The village came together and could not have happened without parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles, godmothers, and the entire community. It was a fabulous time with family and friends, deejay music, a delicious food buffet, 360 wheels, balloon decor, and plenty of fun and fellowship.
Milwaukee has dismal educational statistics for teens, but these graduates were challenged against many odds, especially during the pandemic.
Photos by Yvonne Kemp
The party was intergenerational; the youth respected the elders. St. Marcus graduate LaDonna prayed over the festivities, and she said, “Lord, we ask you to keep us safe from harm and danger, and the party got underway.
The graduates shared their gratitude for being supported and look forward to making this achievement four years from now with continued encouragement from family and friends.
