Peabody Learning Academy Holds First Ever Commencement

Eight students were recognized in the Peabody Learning Academy’s inaugural commencement yesterday. The students, who are among 21 total students at the academy, completed course requirements necessary to graduate with their peers at the  next month.

The Simon Youth Foundation was established in 1998 as a charitable extension of the Simon Malls and Property Group nationwide that helps at-risk youths earn a high school diploma with the hopes of continuing on to college. They currently have 25 schools in the country and, during last school year, garnered a 91% graduation rate.

In partnership with the City of Peabody, the Peabody Public school district and the Northshore Mall, the Simon Youth Foundation opened the PLA last year. The school currently houses 21 students, but has the capacity for 40. Students learn at their own pace in a small school environment, and many have the ability to participate in PVMHS after school activities.

“The Peabody Learning Academy is based on the idea that some students need a small school environment to experience academic success and personal growth,” said PLA academic director Seith Bedard. “At the PLA, faculty and students are committed to building a school community that emphasizes personal attention, academic achievement, and preparation for the worlds of work or higher education.”

Bedard and others within the school system used the PLA’s intimate learning environment to attract students to the school, all of whom were having difficulties in traditional classroom settings. 

“This is a second chance to better yourself, and everyone should take it,” said Kegi Halltari, one of the graduating students.

“We grew as students, and we grew together as a family,” said Kasey Murphy, who also graduated yesterday. 

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