
The Buckeye Community Hope Foundation presented Summit Academy Transition High School – Columbus Principal Cheryl Elliott and her team with an award for having the highest 2023-2024 school year graduation rate – 93.8 percent — of all the schools in its sponsorship portfolio. The honor was delivered by Buckeye Hope representatives at the school’s January 8 board meeting.
“It was a wonderful surprise and Cheryl and her team deserve a round of applause,” says Director of School/Sponsor Relations and Compliance Jacci Gilliland, who notes that Buckeye Hope sponsors 52 schools, 16 of which serve students in grades 9-12.
Elliott says the accomplishment was especially momentous because the 2023-2024 school year was her first year serving as the principal of the high school, along with K-8. She adds that efforts by Administrative Assistant Mackenzie Bogaards and Behavior Specialist Rebecca St. Clair to research, understand and initiate the steps necessary to ensure all seniors were prepared to graduate were key to this success.
“Their commitment, combined with personalized support for our students and a focus on addressing individual needs, made all the difference,” Elliott says. “We are excited to continue building on this success and helping every student reach their highest potential.”
Elliott adds that she is proud and honored to work with a great team.
“Last year’s outstanding 93.8 percent graduation rate is a testament to the hard work, passion and commitment of everyone involved, from our exceptional staff to our determined students, she says.