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At Success Virtual Learning Centers of Michigan, graduation is about more than receiving a diploma—it’s about celebrating the strength, determination, and relationships that help students reach this milestone. Many Success students have faced obstacles in life and education, but through perseverance and support, they achieve something extraordinary: walking across the stage as graduates. At the Muskegon Center, 2025 graduate Jonathan Gokey shared his reflections during the ceremony. His words highlight the impact of caring teachers, the importance of community, and the value of hard work in achieving his goals. Jonathan Gokey, 2025 Graduate Graduation Speech by Jonathan Gokey Class of 2025 – Muskegon Center I don't know how I plan on going about this. First of all, I need to thank Ms. Vanessa, Mr. B, and Mr. Keenan – even though he isn't at the north building anymore. He was an amazing teacher and example setter for all of the students going to the north building. This school has provided me with the necessary equipment, tools and friendship to become better as a student as well as a person. I plan to help others come to this school and to encourage other students to do the same throughout the years. I want students to become better as I have through this school and I recommend this school to any students looking for a teacher-student friendship. These ladies and gentlemen are why I have been able to graduate and get to where I am now and I thank them for that. My idea here is to encourage other students to focus on their work more than messing around in class so that they too can also graduate. I must say, I have to give props to Vanessa and Chris. They helped me throughout the year – even off school hours. They would help me with my work if I asked. These teachers care about their students and you don't see a lot of that in other schools. I am thankful that these people have taught me and helped me learn in a way that allowed me to graduate through the 2 years I spent at this building. Now I have been able to sign up for college/university and plan on going next year. I'll be all set thanks to these wonderful teachers. Now that being said, I want to finish this up by saying thanks to the school administrators, staff, and students for allowing me to come into the school and be a part of their community. I greatly appreciate all that you have done for me and I thank you guys for the fun times we had. I hope y’all have an amazing day and thank you for the moment to have this speech.   Finding Your Way at Success Jonathan’s journey shows how Success provides more than just academics—it builds lasting relationships, personal growth, and confidence for the future. His gratitude for teachers who went above and beyond reflects the kind of support that sets Success apart. At Success Virtual Learning Centers, students are encouraged to take ownership of their education, focus on their goals, and prepare for life after graduation. Whether the next step is college, career, or a new opportunity, Success helps each student “find their way” and realize their dreams.

Graduation is more than a ceremony—it’s a milestone that marks resilience, growth, and the power of perseverance. At Success Virtual Learning Centers of Michigan, we know that every diploma represents a story of overcoming challenges, pushing through difficult seasons, and discovering new possibilities. For many students, the journey to graduation hasn’t been traditional or easy. Yet with the flexibility, support, and encouragement found at Success, they are able to rise above life’s circumstances and accomplish something extraordinary: earning their diploma and stepping into their future with confidence. One of those powerful stories comes from the Monroe Center, where 2025 graduate Jenna Benitez shared her personal journey during the graduation ceremony. Her words reflect not only her own determination, but also the heart of what it means to “find your way” at Success. Jenna Benitez, 2025 Graduate Graduation Speech by Jenna Benitez, Class of 2025 – Monroe Center Good evening, everyone, First, I want to say congratulations to all of us graduating today. We did it. It hasn’t been easy—this journey took hard work, sacrifice, and a lot of growth. But if I could make it here, so can you. And today, we all proved that. When I started 9th grade, my life took a turn I wasn’t ready for. I had to go online because my family and I were going through a painful loss. We lost someone incredibly close to me—my Aunt Ruby. She wasn’t just family. She was my world. Her love, her support, and her presence meant everything to me. Losing her broke me in a way I didn’t know was possible. There were moments I wanted to give up. I really did. Dropping out felt like the only option. But I’m thankful for the people at Success who helped change my perspective, who worked with me, who believed in me when I couldn’t see the finish line. And now—look at me. I’m here. I’m standing on this stage, graduating. I wish Aunt Ruby could be here to see this moment. I know she’d be in the front row, cheering me on louder than anyone. But I’m also so grateful for the rest of my family, who are here with me today. Your support has meant everything. I’m truly blessed. Thank you to my teachers, mentors, and this school for not just teaching me subjects, but showing me strength and hope. I promise I’m going to make the most out of what I’ve learned here. And to everyone who never doubted me, who walked beside me on this journey, thank you from the bottom of my heart. We did it. Finding Your Way at Success Jenna’s story is one of many that show how Success is changing lives. Every graduate has a unique path, and at SVLCM, students are given the opportunity to take that path with personalized support, flexibility, and encouragement. At Success, we believe every student deserves the chance to realize their goals, pursue their dreams, and create a future filled with opportunity. Like Jenna, you too can find your way here—no matter where your journey begins.

At Success Virtual Learning Centers, success comes in many forms—academic achievements, personal growth, and, in this case, a state championship in esports. Logan, a four-year Success student, recently claimed the Michigan High School Esports League’s state title in Madden, marking a historic win for both Logan and the program. Competing against 43 schools statewide, Logan's journey through a nine-week season, culminating in playoffs, is a testament to his dedication. Practices, held twice weekly, covered everything from game updates to strategies for countering opponents’ playbooks. "We spent hours analyzing defenses and perfecting strategies," Logan shared. "Sticking with the Detroit Lions as my team most of the season was the right call—it felt like home turf." This win isn’t just about gaming—it’s about growth, collaboration, and the unique opportunities Success provides. Unlike traditional schools, Success offers flexibility that allows students to balance academics, passions, and responsibilities. For Logan, that balance also meant time to help his family renovate their home while excelling at school and esports. "Our center feels like a community," Logan said. "The connection with teachers is different here—it’s closer and more personal, which really helps when you're juggling different priorities." Looking ahead, Logan plans to enter the trades as an electrician, but his time at Success and his esports achievements will always be a part of his story. The center’s esports coordinator, Zachary Stacks, highlighted how esports teaches valuable skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and motivation. "These students inspire me daily. They’ve built discipline and camaraderie while excelling academically." The esports program at Success benefits from more than just dedicated students—it thrives on the support of staff like Stacks. “Esports here started as a club and grew into something much bigger,” Stacks said. “It’s incredible to watch students like Logan not only excel in the game but also use it as a motivator for academics and personal growth. We’re helping them develop problem-solving skills, discipline, and a sense of responsibility.” Success Virtual Learning Centers’ esports program continues to grow, with plans to expand into NBA 2K and revive its Smash Brothers team, all requiring different tactics and strategies for a winning edge. For Logan and his peers, the program isn’t just about competition—it’s about building skills for life.