On May 19, 2021, seniors at the Natchitoches Parish Technical and Career Center participated in a graduation commencement ceremony at A.A. Fredericks Auditorium on the NSU campus. NPTCC principal Bobby Benjamin acknowledged the students’ hard work during the commencement speech, and thanked parents for entrusting the faculty and staff with their student.
This article published in the July 8, 2021, print edition
Benjamin discussed the pride he has in this class for being resilient through the pandemic and persevering through the many obstacles of this school year. “We are excited for and proud of the Class of 2021,” said Benjamin. “We are excited that these students are entering the threshold of adulthood, and proud that they were able to reach this achievement during an arduous time in history. These young men and women found a way to ignore the distractions caused by the pandemic, overcome personal barriers, and had the fortitude to accomplish a cultural milestone. This is a special class. We wish them all the best!”
Benjamin also recognized the faculty and staff as well as the parents in their role in helping their students achieve their goal. “This was a tough year for teachers and parents. Teachers were asked to adapt their classrooms, teaching styles, and expectations to push their students. Parents and grandparents took on the responsibility in ensuring their student stayed on task while at home and a bigger role in their students’ educational process. This collaboration is what we are also celebrating this year.”
