/PRNewswire/ - Achieve Detroit Academy, an online public charter high school, marked a significant achievement by honoring its inaugural graduating class at a commencement event held on Thursday, June 11, at the Detroit Lions Academy.

Forty-three graduates from various parts of Michigan took part in the ceremony. This group represents a selection of the 74 students who completed their high school requirements through Achieve Detroit in the 2025-26 academic year. The occasion highlighted the journeys of students who surmounted major personal, academic, and life obstacles to reach a goal that once seemed unattainable.

Paul DeAngelis, president of the school's Board of Directors, presented the commencement speech, commending the graduates on their determination and urging them to continue pursuing their ambitions despite difficulties.

During the event, one graduate was awarded a $1,250 scholarship from Graduation Alliance to aid their further studies at a college, university, or trade school.

Achieve Detroit offers an adaptable route to earning a diploma via a completely online, self-paced learning approach tailored to individual student needs. Participants gain entry to digital courses, a laptop, a Wi-Fi hotspot, customized academic guidance, emotional and social assistance, along with committed teachers who support their progress toward graduation.

"This evening, we honor much more than the awarding of diplomas - we recognize the perseverance, strength, and resolve demonstrated by our students in attaining this accomplishment," stated Shannon Van Lente, principal of Achieve Detroit. "Every graduate brings a distinct narrative, and each should take pride in their achievements. Moving ahead, I encourage them to view this success as evidence of their capacity to surmount difficulties and shape their desired future."

This graduation represents a key achievement for the school as well as for Detroit and broader Michigan areas, providing more learners with alternative routes to educational and professional accomplishments.

"At Graduation Alliance, our goal is to guarantee that all students can access resources that enable them to fulfill their aspirations, no matter the hurdles encountered previously," remarked Dr. Shawn Smith, CEO of Graduation Alliance, the school's education management organization. "Achieve Detroit embodies this dedication by delivering adaptable, individualized assistance for those requiring an alternative approach to achievement. We take pride in collaborating with Detroit Public Schools Community District to broaden learning opportunities and bolster communities throughout Detroit and Michigan."

About Achieve Detroit Academy: Achieve Detroit Academy is a tuition-free public charter high school authorized by the Detroit Public Schools Community District and managed by Graduation Alliance, serving Michigan students ages 15-22 and special education students up to age 26. The school offers a flexible, entirely online educational setting aimed at assisting students in overcoming educational barriers and obtaining their high school diploma with tailored academic and social-emotional support. For more information, visit AchieveDetroit.org.

About Graduation Alliance: Since 2007, Graduation Alliance has supplied schools and communities nationwide with the tools and assistance necessary to help individuals accomplish their educational and career objectives.

In collaboration with school districts, local governments, nonprofits, workforce development boards, and community colleges, Graduation Alliance creates effective virtual schools, alternative education, and workforce training initiatives. For more information about Graduation Alliance, visit GraduationAlliance.com.

SOURCE Graduation Alliance