Learning All About Five Awesome Soon-to-Be Graduates from Parkside Community Academy

The Parkside Community Academy Class of 2025 is full of students who are doing big things! Take Taylor and Ta’Niya—these two students created board games to teach people about social justice through the lens of the school-to-prison pipeline and mental health. Not only was this project a creative way for the students to demonstrate their knowledge of these important topics, but it also highlighted how their time at Parkside has prepared them to remain committed to social justice moving forward. 

“I see the importance of speaking up for what is right because words can be so powerful,” said Taylor. “I wanted to bring awareness to those around me by speaking up to the right crowd and the right people, because I know that will lead to bigger and better things for me in the future.” 

We also had the amazing opportunity to connect with three additional students—Mizelle, Aidan, and La’mya—to learn more about their accomplishments at Parkside and their plans for the future. Get to know each of them more below!

What are some of your interests both inside and outside of the classroom? 

Aidan: I love English language arts the most out of all the subjects because it’s my best subject. Outside of school, I love being with my friends and family. 

La’mya: I like science because I feel like I understand it, and it’s also very hands-on. When I’m not in school, what I like to do changes. Sometimes I like to be home, but other times I like to be outside. 

Mizelle: My favorite subject is also science because I’m someone who likes hands-on learning. I like to hang out with my friends, and I also like boxing. 

Could you share some of your favorite memories of the school? 

La’mya: I have so many, but I know that I’m going to remember the house meetings that we had, because those were really fun. I’m also going to miss field day, as well as all of the staff, because they were very nice. 

Mizelle: My favorite memories are of our silent parties because they were the most fun. I also got to be a student leader because it helped me learn more about myself and what I want to do in the future. 

Aidan: The student leadership job was also a highlight for me because I had different opportunities to be involved in so many things around the school and be with my friends. 

How has your time at Parkside prepared you for high school, and what are you most excited about for next year? 

Aidan: I’m looking forward to developing new skills and adapting to a new environment. 

La’mya: All of the tests that I’ve been taking and the levels of support that I’ve received through MTSS have definitely prepared me to succeed in high school. 

Mizelle: I’ve been able to take algebra, which has allowed me to build my critical thinking skills and has helped me be ready for math in high school. 

What advice would you share with the students at Parkside who are following in your footsteps? 

Aidan: Work hard! Nothing will be given to you—you have to earn it! 

Mizelle: Choose your friends wisely. If you pick the wrong crowd, it can affect you negatively more than positively. 

La’mya: It is extremely important to pay attention. If you don’t, you’re not going to know what you need to. Stay on top of your game!