A total of 18 ACES Academy students graduated this year.

ACES Academy Director Jon Studley welcomed graduates, educators, friends, and family members to the ceremony, held at Art in the Loft.

Studley praised the graduates’ persistence and success in their work-life balance.

“They were not only able to meet their graduation requirements, but thrive while doing so,” he said.

News Photo by Reagan Voetberg ACES Academy graduates listen to Celia Smith’s speech during the ceremony Wednesday night.

Studley read the poem “Attitude” by Charles Swindoll.

“I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it,” one line of the poem reads.

“I believe that is the greatest advice to live by,” Studley said.

“Being a part of the ACES family, and working alongside our students in our one-room schoolhouse, our staff is fortunate to have had the opportunity to get to learn about who our graduates are,” he said. “This group will hold a special place in our memories.”

Graduate Celia Smith spoke about her journey through high school and ACES Academy.

“It’s truly been the best learning experience for me so far,” Smith said.

Smith shared that a general high school environment was not the best fit for her due to mental and physical health issues she had as she started high school. ACES brought the perfect balance between online and in-person learning.

“The support and environment at ACES is what should be in every aspect of your academic life,” she said.

Awards and scholarships were announced by ACES Academy staff members.

Collin McIllaney received the Laura Stibitz award for his resilience and determination.

Mya Smith and Celia Smith received Excellence awards for their accomplishments.

Sophia Garbulinski received the Follow Your Dream award for her determination in succeeding in the medical field.

Cherokee Dean and Mason Stephan received the Shining Star awards.

McIllaney won the Challenge of Excellence award scholarship from the Exchange Club of Alpena.

After the awards were announced, the students went one by one to receive their diplomas and ring the bell one last time. Ringing the bell is an ACES tradition which signifies the completion of an online class.

As the graduates shook the hands of their teachers, APS board members, and the superintendent, they took their first steps into life as adults.

Reagan Voetberg can be reached at 989-358-5683 or rvoetberg@TheAlpenaNews.com.