Twenty students in Philomath Academy’s Class of 2024 will receive diplomas during a graduation ceremony scheduled for 7 p.m. Wednesday on the lawn west of the alternative school’s location at the school district office.
The event will include a valedictorian address by Allessandra Bakker and a staff address by Phillip Ayer. Graduate Kalani Abadilla-Weir will open the program with a welcome. Philomath School Board members will participate by handing out diplomas and school superintendent Susan Halliday, who doubles as Philomath Academy’s principal, will lead the turning of tassels.
“Every step of the way was a challenge somewhat,” Bakker said when asked about obstacles on the way to earning a diploma. “I gave up some social time, a lot of social time, for my studies. No regrets. I love learning and have made some invaluable connections and friendships through my academics. I proved to myself that dyslexia would not hold me back; it has become my superpower.”
The daughter of Holly and Chris Bakker, she earned the valedictorian designation with a 4.0 grade point average. More academic challenges are on the horizon.
“After taking physics and completing some engineering certifications this summer, I will enter Oregon State University in the fall to continue my studies in computer science and bioengineering,” she said.
Asked where she sees herself in 10 years, Bakker said, “I will be a software engineer, creating tools and educational resources for people to help them turn their learning challenges into their own superpowers.”
Bakker said former principal Dan Johnson had the biggest influence on her Philomath Academy education.
“I am forever grateful to Dr. Dan Johnson,” she said. “He believed in me. He opened up an opportunity to me that has allowed me to flourish.”
Twenty students will receive diplomas:
• Kalani Allen Abadilla-Weir, Caden Taylor Anderton, Allessandra Patricia Bakker, Mercy Agnesse Cornwell, Keegen Andrew Evans, Alejandra Fregoso, Wyatt John Garwood, Kamilla Ann Grimmer, Chloe Renee Hendrickson, Tristan Anthony Hubbard, Borden Conner Jobe, Rowan Dolores Lee, Quin Robert Loyd, Addison Michelle Mussatti, Haylee Raquel Nordyke, Trayson Hugo Parmelee, Evy Kate Remington, Ivie Coletta Tussing, Skylar Tye Witmer and Marissa Christine Zeller.
In addition, seven students completed requirements for a General Educational Development certificate:
• Aiden Bryant, Zandyer Hecker, Benjamin Hunter, Wylhelmynna Nanoski, Noah Nash, Tasnim Sadka and Colton Westbrook.
The school district office and Philomath Academy is located at 1620 Applegate St.