05/26/2026
🎓 Graduation season is all about celebrating milestones, but for the students at the Simon Youth Academy at McKinley, it’s also about celebrating incredible courage, resilience, and the power of a fresh start.
This year, seniors Koriyah Miller and Gavan Bowen were honored at the 33rd Annual Mayor’s Turnaround Achievement Awards. From overcoming steep uphill battles to stepping into leadership roles and entering the workforce with purpose, these two seniors embody what it means to actively choose your own path.
We are immensely proud of Koriyah, Gavan, and the dedicated educators like Mrs. Deanne Wideman and Principal Idowu Ikudabo who walk alongside our students every single day. When a community comes together to lift up its youth, the weight of the world gets a little lighter.
Join us in celebrating the Class of 2026! ✨
👉 Read their full, inspiring turnaround stories here:
Overlooking the Wildcat Creek at the Simon Youth Academy at McKinley, success looks a little differe...