Students at Ombudsman often face a bitter struggle along the path to success, which makes receiving a high school diploma an even sweeter accomplishment. Just weeks into 2016, the year has already been rewarding for more than 44 Ombudsman Chicago students who have earned their Chicago Public Schools high school diploma.
A Chicago Public Schools Options School Program, Ombudsman Chicago opened its doors in August 2013. With three convenient locations on the Northwest, West and South Sides, Ombudsman is working with students throughout the city to provide a second chance at achieving success in the classroom and in life after high school.
West Side native Ronnesha Whitfield, 20, began having behavioral problems after she started spending time with a different group of friends. After dropping out twice, Ronnesha felt embarrassed that her peers had moved on and completed high school. She wanted to give up for good, but after talking with her mother about getting back on track, Ronnesha enrolled at Ombudsman. Now she credits the support received from Ombudsman’s faculty and staff as the reason she was able to finally overcome some of life’s biggest challenges.
Ronnesha and fellow classmate Isiah Spann help motivate each other on a daily basis. Spann, an 18-year-old West Side native, is no stranger to the trials and tribulations many Chicago youth encounter. After becoming a father at age 14, Isiah knew it was imperative to complete his education and serve as a positive role model to his child.
Much like Isiah, the promise of fatherhood drove 18-year-old Inocencio Lorenzo to get serious about his education. Inocencio’s girlfriend is seven months pregnant, and he knows that that an education is the right path to provide a better life for himself and his family.
Ombudsman celebrated these graduates and others during mid-year graduation ceremonies held at each of its three Chicago locations in February. Students who have earned their diploma during the winter semester will be invited to participate in the school’s expanded graduation ceremony in June 2016.
