As we enter graduation season, I thought it appropriate to showcase just how far we have come in terms of how we've grown over the years. I was able to discover some hidden gems about the first graduating class from Lincoln Charter School, the Class of 2005.

Once our school launched in the fall of 1998, our original Board of Directors set the plan in motion as to just how our school would grow over the years. Two primary tenets for growth were established: 1. Add one grade per year until reaching 12th grade. (This would be the same growth model used when our Denver Campus was born, and you can read about that in an upcoming installment..) 2. Growth was not to exceed more than 10% of the current student population.

Using the process for growth listed above, that put our first graduating class as the Class of 2005!

I can recall the excitement around this monumental achievement. We did a lot of celebrating as the Seniors got closer and closer to their big day. It meant a lot for our Seniors to take that "stage walk" and receive their diplomas,  not only cementing their accomplishments as graduates, but also as evidence of their commitment to our school and their devotion to the beliefs and values we were founded upon at LCS.

The venue for our first graduating class was the James W. Warren Citizen’s Center, and on Friday, May 27th, 2005, the first class of Eagles spread their wings and flew into the next chapter of their lives. Eighteen Eagles strutted across the stage to receive their reward for hard work and dedication, the first diplomas ever issued by Lincoln Charter. Former Mayor of Charlotte, North Carolina, Pat McCrory delivered the first commencement address, challenging our students to live out their dreams by never placing themselves in the proverbial "box" of life. He challenged our students to be the change they wish to see in the world and to never let anybody tell them they "can't," because they most definitely can.

I've included a few pictures of this momentous occasion. If you recognize any of the inaugural graduates I'd love to hear back from you! Until next time Eagle Nation. Stay well and stay Blessed. Go Eagles. 

And....congratulations to the Graduating Class 28 years in the making, the class of 2026!