NMCC seniors honored during Decision Day

A large crowd gathered in the student commons at New Madrid County Central High School for senior decision day on May 2. The day recognized the plans of the members of Class of 2024 following their graduation. Pictured at the signing table is Evan McClellan with his mother, Tamra McClellan. Standing behind them is Julie Hayes from State Tech. (Jill Bock/Standard Democrat)

NEW MADRID, Mo. — It was a celebration of what is to come.

On May 2, students at New Madrid County Central High School celebrated Senior Decision Day. One by one they came forward to sign a certificate as senior counselor Dallas Allen read their plans following graduation.

Many of the graduates will attend four-year colleges or universities. Majors ranged from history to nursing to environmental sciences.

New Madrid County Central High School senior Kenya Cocom signs her letter of intent to attend Three Rivers College. Cocom has earned admission directly into the school's nursing program after taking part in the R-1 Technical Skills Program's health sciences classes. Pictured watching her sign are her mother, Darcy Cocom, and Bailey Davidson with Three Rivers College. (Jill Bock/Standard Democrat)

Others opted for trade schools with plans to earn advanced certifications in welding, electricity, cosmetology and automotive, among others. There will be at least one member of the Class of 2024 joining the military while others will join the workforce.

According to Allen this is the second year for NMCC to take part in Senior Decision Day.

“The kids love it,” Allen said about the event. “They have worked for this for four years and we want to recognize them all for their future plans and their hard work in high school.”

Allen said in August she meets with each member of the senior class to talk about their interests and where they would like to apply. As the year progresses, the students begin submitting their applications.

She also praised the high school teachers and the vocational instructors for helping the students determine where they will take the next steps in their careers. Not only have they helped students learn the skills they need but also were instrumental in making possible advanced placement and even an internship, Allen said.

The final day for the NMCC Class of 2024 is their graduation set for 6:30 p.m. May 14.