Extra options available at Kelly HS

To the editor:

As a May 2004 graduate of Kelly High School, I chose not to leave in December despite my completion of the required credits. I continued my education with vocational courses and dual-credit classes through Southeast Missouri State University during my eighth semester.

Maintaining my student status during that semester offered me the opportunity to participate in the graduation ceremony. Students opting to graduate after seven semesters of course work knowingly forfeit the privilege of walking across the stage with the remainder of the class in May.

Students graduating in December to pursue other academic, occupational or family endeavors decline the opportunity to participate in the May graduation ceremony. Allowing December graduates to rejoin the class for an evening in May belittles the additional semester of course work. Perhaps students who complete the necessary credits in December should consider the additional programs provided by Kelly High School.

CHRISTINE TEW, Columbia, Mo.