Stay Focused...Stay on Task...Stay out of Trouble.

That was the key mantra that helped Desmen Ireland, the first high school graduate from the Gary Comer Campus, earn his high school diploma in three years.

Although Desmen did not follow the traditional route through high school, "he found a way that worked for him.  We had no doubt he would finish his schooling," reflected Jolleen Wagner, one of Desmen's former middle school teachers.

As a member of the first graduating class at the Gary Comer Campus, Desmen completed his middle school education in 2006.  Reflecting upon his experience during middle school, Desmen describes the impact that San Miguel teachers had on his life.  "When I first came to San Miguel, I had a hard time. I didn't talk to anyone.  San Miguel helped change me.  I learned how to control my temper and ignore ignorance that would have gotten me in trouble before."   

These were important lessons that helped Desmen make the transition to high school.  Although his high school experiences weren't always easy, Desmen felt his experience at San Miguel helped him readjust to every place he went.  "My teachers kept pushing me forward, even when I thought I couldn't do it."  

Because of this, Desmen learned that he could accomplish anything if he "stayed focused, stayed on task, and stayed out of trouble."  As a result of these important life lessons, Desmen graduated this spring, a year ahead of his peers, from Westside Alternative High School, becoming the first graduate from the Gary Comer Campus to earn a high school diploma.  

With his high school diploma, Desmen feels that the future has opened up to him.  Because of his love for animals, he hopes to pursue a career as a veterinarian.