1st graduate takes the stage at Compass Academy

One student was the first and only graduate to cross the stage Thursday. Mikayla Parsons graduated from Idaho Falls School District 91’s Compass Academy.

The school first opened in 2012, and only accepted grades 9-10. Parsons should be a junior this year, but with hard work and determination, she was able to complete all her required classes a year early.

“I’m a little nervous to be the only one wearing a silly cap and gown, but I’m excited to be moving a step further in my life,” said Parsons.

Parsons has accepted a debate scholarship to Lewis and Clark in Portland, Oregon. She said although she will not be graduating with her classmates next year, she still has sound advice to offer them.

“Stay true to yourself. I remember this year I had a lot of people say ‘You need to go to a bigger school and you need to do all these things,'” she said. “I think it is really important for you to do what you want and not what everyone else wants, so you’ll be happy.”