Congratulations PEAK Class of 2020: A Commencement to Remember

PEAK's Class of 2020 accepted their diplomas May 30 in a one-of-a-kind outdoor celebration. All the emotion of a graduation can never be fully captured in pictures, but the pride in hard-won successes is visible on the faces of every PEAK scholar who walked to “Pomp and Circumstance” with joy and optimism in the air. The ceremony began with scholars and families parked next to the school in cars decorated with balloons

and signs -- all waving and cheering. Each scholar walked from the lot to a balloon arch a good 100 feet to the applause of Holy Trinity teachers and staff, and PEAK staff and alums as well.

It was a beautiful cap on four life-changing years for this class of exceptionally kind PEAK scholars. These young men and women have had more than their share of struggle, whether with academics, self-doubt, challenges at home, or all of the above. One of the most shy has become a fearless traveler thanks to an out-of-state summer program that introduced her to friends from all over the world. Another learned to overcome learning disabilities by developing an incredible work ethic, dedicating long weeks every summer to make-up coursework, which he came in to school alone to sit at a desk and complete. Another still has turned her ability to “juggle it all” as the eldest child, helping raise five younger siblings toward a career in respiratory therapy - thanks to a mentor who saw her for the force she is!

With their PEAK mentors alongside them every step of the way they have all embraced meeting new people from all walks of life, and embracing the lessons their mentors had to share, whether it be about how to look honestly at how you are holding yourself back or tips and tricks for self-advocacy when you are feeling overwhelmed by school or life demands. We are not surprised to be able to share that most of the class of seniors has found work this summer to help them with expenses when they start school in the fall.

Collectively, the 2020 PEAK graduates received over $175,000 in scholarships. They plan to pursue degrees including Psychology at Hope College, Early Childhood Education at Northeastern Illinois University, and Respiratory Therapy at Malcolm X College - just to name a few.

To each PEAK senior and his or her mentor, well done! Thank you for honoring all of us at PEAK with the opportunity to walk alongside you. Seniors, welcome to the ranks of PEAK’s alumni!