The Fridley Moore Lake Area Learning Center (ALC) celebrated the success of 21 students at its Class of 2022 graduation celebration on May 26. Families, friends and staff gathered at the Fridley Community Center (FCC) to congratulate the graduates on their success. The ALC is an alternative school in the Fridley School District that allows students to achieve their individual learning goals and receive a Fridley High School. The ALC 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. 

At the ceremony, Principal of Alternative Services Kelly McConville praised the graduates for their abilities and determination as he welcomed families, staff and School Board members. 

“We are so proud of our graduating students today. They realized what they knew all along: that the attributes of hard work, perseverance and resilience made all the difference,” McConville said. “They started to see success, and it built and grew.” 

Dr. Kim Hiel, Superintendent of Fridley Public Schools, spoke at the ceremony, acknowledging the graduates and their goals. “Your stories are neither complete nor are they just beginning,” Dr. Hiel said. “Each of you have overcome challenges to reach this milestone. You remain committed and focus despite pandemics of injustice and disease. You leaned on each other. You lifted each other up. You leaned on your families. No one will ever be able to take away your education.” 

The guest speaker for the event, Shae Midgyett, graduated from Fridley High School in 2020 through the ALC. She shared how she had given up on school at one point, despite being a gifted and excellent student. According to Midgyett, the ALC offered her a strong framework to reach her goals at her own pace. 

“The ALC made me feel as if they were on my team,” Midgyett said. “Their goal was the same as mine. They only wanted me to succeed as much as I did."

She shared that she even began her career path by enrolling in a credit recovery program at the ALC. Midgyett now works for Fridley Community Education at the FCC, serving as a classroom assistant.

Midgyett concluded by telling students to recognize their own accomplishments. “I want you to take a moment and be proud of yourself. Don't take anything away from yourself in these moments. You did it!”