“DREAMS OF HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA COME TRUE”
THANKS TO The Arc Mid-South L.E.T.S. PROGRAM
Congratulations, Christina R.
The Arc Mid-South’s Board members and staff recently held a high school graduation celebration for one of the students in its LETS (Life, Education, and Training Skills) class. Christina R. obtained her high school diploma by mastering all of the academic requirements of the Gateway Exam. The Arc Mid-South’s Executive Director, Carlene Leaper said that the LETS program started in August 2011 after they saw a need to empower individuals by equipping them with the tools necessary to
accomplish their goals. The agency has served individuals with disabilities for more than 30 years.
"The graduation rate for Tennessee public high schools in 2011 was 86% for all
students. However, the graduation rate for students with disabilities was 67%. In
addition, 14% of those students with disabilities who graduated did so with a
certificate of attendance not a diploma," said Carlene Leaper.
"That was Christina's situation. She spent 12 years in the public school system in
special education classes and did not receive a diploma. So, her goal from the moment she heard about our LETS classes was to obtain her high school diploma."
"What an accomplishment for her and us, Ms. Leaper said. "The Arc Mid-South did what the Memphis City School did not do. We congratulate Christina in her
well-deserved accomplishment."