Homeless teen graduates as high school valedictorian

Despite all the obstacles in his path, a homeless New Orleans teenager not only graduated from Walter L. Cohen High School, but also earned the title of valedictorian! Elijah Hogan, 19, maintained his 3.89 GPA while living in a homeless shelter for part of his educational journey. Although there was a time when he wondered whether or not he would make it through high school, he ended up succeeding beyond his wildest dreams. His incredible story has become a source of inspiration for many!

As Elijah informed People, his grandmother was a great help to him when he found himself with nowhere to go. As a former social worker, she referred the teen to Covenant House.

“His lease form for the house we were all living in was starting to expire and we only had 30 days left before we had to move out,” the valedictorian recalled. “So I took it upon myself to live independently. She gave me some information about Covenant House and told me to continue my education.

Through this temporary housing, the homeless teen was able to find enough stability to complete his education and graduate from high school as a top student. He credits them with “giving me a place to stay, a place to eat, a place to sleep.”

“Without them, I wouldn’t have been able to finish high school,” he said.

Elijah's social worker was cheering him on during graduation.

This homeless teen also received much-needed support from his case manager, Jarkayla Cobb, who was absolutely thrilled to see him graduate.

“I was front row and center,” she said. “He was the first person to come out and I was the first person to shout his name before all the other parents started shouting their kids' names. Seeing him and being here to feel the joy – I couldn't ask for anything more, to be honest with you.

Having his case manager there to support him during the ceremony must have been really special for Elijah, especially since his own mother couldn't be there. According to 11Alive, she died when her son was just eight years old.

After delivering his valedictorian speech at Walter L. Cohen High School, Elijah Hogan has even more to say to his classmates.

“This is for all African-American children, including adolescents,” he said. “No matter where you are or what region you are in, even though things may seem bad and depressed, there will be times when there will be people who will lend a hand to help you get through it. to go out. So, take this opportunity.

Wise words!

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