Penn Hills Charter School of Entrepreneurship holds 8th grade graduation outside

Penn Hills Charter School of Entrepreneurship’s graduating eighth graders were able to have a proper send-off under the sun at graduation on June 4.

Graduation was held outside for the first time on a field in front of the school. Families and friends were able to sit under a tent to avoid the sun’s bright rays. They were given the option of wearing masks.

Students donning blue or gold gowns wore their masks during graduation.

PHCSE Principal Tamara Allen-Thomas had a big smile on her face as she expressed how excited she was to see everyone.

“We wanted to make this year out to be a memorable year for our scholars,” she said.

Thirty-nine eighth graders walked across the stage to accept their diplomas. The ceremony included a slideshow of pictures reflecting on the school year. There also was a moment of silence for former PHCSE student Darin Hodby, who was shot and killed May 23 in Wilkinsburg.

While school officials were determined to have an in-person graduation, Allen-Thomas said safety was also a priority. That’s why the graduation was held outside.

“We wanted to be responsible and safe while celebrating,” she said.

Last year, the school held a virtual graduation via Zoom for students, and staff personally delivered students’ diplomas to their houses, said PHCSE CEO Wayne Jones.

Jones was happy the school was be able to celebrate the students the way they deserved.

“I am thrilled and happy we are able to send them off in the right way,” he said.

Parents were happy to see their child graduate in person, too.

Michelle Jasper of Verona said it was exciting to see her daughter celebrate after a tough school year with virtual learning.

“It’s exciting because you always look forward to seeing your child move forward to the next chapter,” Jasper said.

Toya Jones was very pleased with how graduation turned out, complimenting the decorations and setup.

“They went over and beyond what I expected,” said Jones, of Verona. “I thought it was a really nice touch.”

Graduates were also grateful to be together one last time before moving on to high school.

Halona Carter said it was bittersweet but it felt good to be around everyone.

“I really enjoyed seeing the smiles, the laughs and the pictures,” Carter said.

Zyauna Minard said her favorite part of graduation was the slideshow.

“I was glad we could get a last goodbye,” Minard said.