The Fridley Moore Lake Area Learning Center (ALC) honored the class of 2023 at its annual graduation celebration held at the Fridley Community Center on Thursday, May 25. Families, friends and staff gathered to celebrate the 25 graduates in an intimate ceremony that inspired many cheers, hugs and tears.

The celebration began with remarks from Principal Kelly McConville acknowledging the contributions of families and staff and praising the graduating class.

“I’m honored to be here to congratulate and recognize the accomplishments of our graduating students,” McConville said. “To our graduates, I’m so proud of your accomplishments, and you should be proud of yourselves.”

Superintendent Kim Hiel followed with a speech emphasizing her pride in the graduates for overcoming adversity to earn their diplomas.

“From all of us in this room, no matter what path you took to receive your high school diploma, we all know the excitement of reaching that end goal,” Dr. Hiel said. “Our scholars here today have shown it can be done no matter what challenges may appear.”

As each graduate made their way to the lectern to accept their diplomas, Nicole Moussette, teacher on special assignment at the ALC, highlighted their individual achievements and successes.

McConville concluded the ceremony reiterating his gratitude to families and staff. “Thank you again to everyone who has supported our graduates.”

The ALC is an alternative school in the Fridley school district that gives students the opportunity to achieve their individual learning goals and receive a Fridley High School diploma. It features small classes, individual learning plans, flexible schedules, independent study and direct instruction, along with a variety of course completion options and credit for on-the-job training.