“We Did It!” — Launch Virtual Learning Celebrates 185 New Graduates 🎓✨

The lobby of the Kickapoo High School Performing Arts Center buzzed with excited chatter last night as the Launch Class of 2025—including several who spent their entire high school careers as full-time virtual Launch students—gathered for an in-person graduation ceremony. At 6 p.m., the buzz crescendoed through the Center’s jam-packed auditorium as proud seniors marched down the aisle, ready to shine on stage. Launch seniors and their supporters were in attendance, eager to celebrate at a graduation ceremony unlike any other in the state—an in-person event for students who took all of their courses online.

A Statewide Class, One Shared Stage

Graduates hailed from every corner of the state, united by Launch and our promise: your zip code should never limit your opportunity. Dr. Nichole Lemmon, Launch’s Director of Virtual Learning & Strategic Planning, opened the evening by introducing an all-star lineup of Springfield Public Schools leaders—Superintendent Dr. Grenita Lathan, Board President Mrs. Judy Brunner, and a host of Launch administrators and counselors.

“Success knows no boundaries—not even the walls of a traditional classroom,” Dr. Lemmon said. “This moment is the result of your hard work and the power of a community built on purpose and perseverance.”

Voices of the Class of 2025

Launch’s graduation ceremony spotlighted two student speakers, beginning with Allyson Brown. With a mix of humor and honesty, Allyson reflected on her Launch journey—earning PE credits with a Garmin watch, receiving timely check-ins from teachers (“especially those phone calls when I really needed to get things done”), and navigating the challenges of virtual learning, which sometimes felt like “building our education inside, faces dug into screens.” Still, she shared, the end result was worth it: “a weight lifted off my shoulders.” Allyson will attend OTC this fall, diploma—and official paperwork—in hand.

Next came Autumn Roe, who began Launch as a freshman, navigated health challenges, and—thanks to the flexibility of her virtual classes—graduated a full year early. Autumn highlighted the independence Launch demands. “Sure, our teachers sent reminders, but at the end of the day, we had to hit submit,” Autumn said. “And that responsibility? That’s ours to keep.”

Tassels, Cheers & A Cap-Toss Finale

After Dr. Lemmon officially presented the Class of 2025, Dr. Lathan accepted them on behalf of Springfield Public Schools, and Mrs. Brunner authorized the diplomas. Coordinator of Virtual Counseling Services Mr. David Schuman—a familiar name in hundreds of Canvas inboxes—read each graduate’s name.

Our Well Wishes

To each and every one of our 185 graduates: your Launch family couldn’t be prouder. You didn’t just attend our virtual school—you helped define what modern learning in Missouri can look like. Keep saying yes to opportunity, yes to your goals, and yes to the future you want to create—you’ve officially launched! 🚀