Ready for their Next Chapter: Cohort 35

High Jump’s annual Moving Up Ceremony is the culminating event to honor students’ two years of hard work. Each graduating High Jump student gets to walk across the stage and receive their certificate—a physical reminder of all the work they’ve put in over the past two years and of all that they’ll carry with them as they continue onto their futures.

We make space to hear from one student from each campus to inspire their peers with their story of how High Jump has helped shape the young scholars they are today. We also invite a program alum to speak to the graduating cohort, offering the perspective of someone who was once in their shoes and who can impart some words of wisdom as they prepare for this next exciting chapter of their lives.

At this year’s Moving Up Ceremony, Kiyan (Latin Campus), Zion (Parker Campus), and Jaden (Lab Campus) all shared reflections on their time in the program, while High Jump alum Genesis Martinez (Cohort 24) celebrated their accomplishments and prepared them for continued success on their journeys.

Here’s a taste of what they each had to say:

Kiyan

My High Jump experience will always be one of the most memorable moments in my life because of how it has helped me grow as a creative thinker and develop my views on various topics. One of the most impactful classes at High Jump was humanities. We talked about topics that aren’t spoken enough about in the real world. Because of this, I was able to consider other people’s perspectives and experiences. 

I am excited for what high school holds ahead for me. To my High Jump classmates, I’ll leave you with this: Don’t be afraid of the unknown, Dream Big, and Love yourself.

Zion

My experience at High Jump has been nothing but engaging. Whether playing volleyball during recess with my friends, learning SEL skills, or how to do my best in class from my teachers, I always found at least something to look forward to. High Jump gave me the knowledge and support that has prepared me to go to high school. It also allowed me to support my friends as they navigated the high school process.

Congratulations on completing this program. I know it has not been easy. I know it was hard, and I know you’ve all wanted to quit at some point; trust me, the feeling is mutual. But the fact that you pushed through, even when it was difficult, is a true sign of your resilience. You have already shown that you have the strength and determination it takes to succeed. I hope you’re proud of yourselves—because you should be. You’ve earned this moment.

Jaden

Something that has positively stuck with me was meeting my amazing pod and learning so much about everyone.  I feel collaboration and communication is what makes a great team, and these people have shown they are great examples. The pod has always had each other’s backs, and we’ve helped each other when needed. 

To my High Jump peers, let’s all keep staying true to our values and beliefs. Don’t let others define or degrade you, and try to surround yourself with people who will support and lift you up. I feel we have all truly grown through this experience, and it’s only right that it’s mentioned somewhere. It was hard, but we did it! And just like we did this, I know we can do more for ourselves.

Genesis

High Jump made me feel at home and helped me grow in ways I didn’t expect. After graduating from this very stage, I went on to attend the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where I pursued a bachelor’s degree in both Marketing and Supply Chain Management. I work in consulting, where the job is fast-paced and unpredictable. As a consultant, you need to adapt constantly, sometimes diving into projects you know nothing about at first. Honestly, High Jump prepared me for that. From learning time management skills to building critical thinking skills, High Jump laid the foundation for how I now meet challenges today.

I have stayed connected to the program, serving on the Associate Board for the past year and a half, and that’s what led to this incredible opportunity to speak to all of you. 

Each of us carries a unique story etched with turning points,  brave choices, and the unconditional love of those who have stood by us. As we celebrate today, I encourage you to pause and reflect on the people and experiences that have shaped you. Remember the struggles you have endured, the sacrifices you or your loved ones had to make, and the moments of triumph that brought you to this incredible milestone. 

While it’s important to honor the path that has brought me here, I encourage you to face what lies ahead with boldness and relentless drive. You are more than just graduates, you are tomorrow’s future leaders in a world that’s constantly evolving.

Yes, high school might feel a little intimidating at first, but remember it’s also a time to discover new passions, try new things that you’ve never tried before, and maybe even join a club or sport you never thought you needed to. Every time you step outside your comfort zone, you learn something new about yourself, and through it all, lean on the friendships you make here. Your High Jump crew, they get it. They’ve been there for the early Saturday mornings, the intense summer sessions, and all the hard work. They’ll be your support system as you navigate new schools and new environments.

It has been 11 years since I was in your shoes, and some of my closest friends are still the ones I met at High Jump. If there’s one message I hope you carry with you today, it’s that you’re capable of incredible things, no matter where you come from or what challenges you face. Keep believing in yourself, stay committed to your goals, and dream big. You have the power to change your future and the world. 

Congratulations, High Jump Cohort 35! This is just the beginning, and I cannot wait to see all of the amazing things that you will all accomplish in the years to come. 

Never forget the power of your story as you continue forward.