A Louisiana teen has achieved the remarkable feat of graduating as valedictorian of his high school while living in a homeless shelter. Despite starting high school with remote learning during the pandemic and the fact that he’s been living in Covenant House, a shelter for homeless youth in New Orleans, 19-year-old Elijah Hogan overcame the odds to not just graduate, but graduate at the top of his class at Walter L. Cohen High School.
Hogan credits his academic success to the support he’s received from fellow students, teachers, and the staff at both his school and at Covenant House. During his valedictorian address at the graduation ceremony, the teen delivered a heartfelt "thank-you note" to the community that’s had a significant impact on his life and helped him and his peers graduate.
Graduating with an impressive 3.93 GPA, Hogan plans to continue his education at Xavier University of Louisiana in the fall, where he wants to major in graphic design. He advises other students hoping to succeed to focus on their schoolwork, noting that education will help them navigate life’s hardships and foster supportive relationships.
Source: GOOD MORNING AMERICA