Macks Creek School is proud to announce the graduation of Troy Hufferd! Troy is the son of Rich and Chrissy Hufferd. He was recognized at a ceremony this evening at the Exceptional Pupil Cooperative of the Ozarks in Bolivar.
A former principal of Troy, Mrs. Leidra Stunkel shared, “when I think of Troy, the word ‘get’ comes to mind. In the morning I would tell him “Good morning Troy!’. Troy would always say “Hello, now get!” Cathy Ritter-Herzog, a para-professional who worked with Troy, shared:
When I first met Troy, I didn’t know what to expect. I introduced myself and he told me ‘don’t talk to me. Don’t look at me.’ Over the last 5 years, he has taught me kindness, patience, and that being open to learning goes a long way. Now, he won’t leave me alone and he teases me every morning. He is very helpful and kind to the other kids. He has taught me so much and I will miss him tremendously!
After the traditional “Pomp and Circumstance” Troy, his fellow graduates and all in attendance were welcomed by EPCO’s Director, Mrs. Taylor Gunter. Next, Principal Mrs. Tasha Wood introduced the graduating class. During the ceremony Troy presented his teachers and Mom with flowers thanking them for their support and encouragement. After a slide show featuring the graduates, diplomas were presented. Macks Creek Superintendent, Dr. Joshua Phillips was proud to present Troy with his Diploma.
The ceremony concluded with celebratory remarks by Principal, Mrs. Alicia McCoy. She shared the following with the graduates:
Over the years, you have grown so much! Whether you were overcoming your own personal obstacles or finding your own voice, each of you has shown what it means to rise above and shine. At EPCO we believe in exceptional potential and tonight that belief is confirmed by your bright faces! You are artists, leaders, deep thinkers, problem solvers and kind hearted souls. You are ready! Never forget, graduation isn’t the end, it’s the beginning of the next chapter. The world out there needs your passion, your creativity and your perspective. While the path ahead may sometimes feel uncertain, remember this, you’ve already proven, you can do hard things.
Mrs. McCoy went on to share that she and all of the teachers are incredibly proud. She concluded by telling the graduates, “You have left a legacy that will inspire future students to dream big and believe in themselves just like you have. Go forward with confidence, go forward with purpose and always know you will be part of the EPCO family!” After the ceremony a reception was held.
Macks Creek School is proud of Troy and his hard work! Congratulations Troy! We wish you the best in the next chapter of your life!
Below are photos from this evening’s ceremony:
Troy poses for a photo just before the ceremony began.
Troy presents his Mom with a flower.
Troy receives his diploma from Dr. Phillips.
Troy escorts his classmate, Jessica, at the conclusion of the ceremony.
Troy poses for a photo with Dr. Phillips and his Mom after the ceremony.
Troy takes a photo with Dr. Phillips and Mrs. Gunter after the ceremony.
Troy and his fellow classmates.
Congratulations Troy, Gavin and Jessica!
#MCPirates
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