Look Out, Old Mack is Back!

This past fall, my son Mack came to me and said that he wasn't doing very well in his Economics class. As a senior, he realized that he had a few classes that he had to make up for also. Because of a low grade or incomplete work. He told me about the ALC. The Alternative Learning Center that is here in our school district. I must admit that I was a little judgmental about the place. People judge the place as a place for losers. He assured me that he could focus on just the work he needed for graduation and could even finish early. So, that's what he did. He went to ALC in the mornings and then to vo-tech. in the afternoons. It was early March when I contacted his ALC teacher and found out that he was slacking on homework. I told him that not graduating was not an option and to get the work in the form of units done! He whipped himself into shape and told me 2 weeks ago that his work was done and he would be participating in the all senior graduation ceremony, but that there was also going to be one for the ALC seniors. Of course, I would attend and was happy my daughter could go with me. I wasn't expecting to witness what I did. The group of 18 kids and the teachers were so special. Each of the kids was called up and two of their teachers would share special traits and skills that the grads. possessed. Let's just say that these kids have all had to overcome some pretty big obstacles. Three of the girls had gone thru pregnancies and still graduated. One boy had lost his father at 13 and had gotten off track. SOme kids just needed extra motivation that they weren't getting from their home situations. Then there was Mack. I couldn't have been more proud when they were talking to him and about him up there on the big stage for all to see. I was turning on the water works a little bit when they asked where I was in the audience and then told me I "raised him well." They were having such a good time talking about the fun times they had all had in the school.That it was like a family. How Mack would give someone a hug, or tell a humorous story. I think part of the water works on my part was due to the fact that while I didn't knock the ALC, I didn't really promote it or share it with anybody. to me it wasn't a very big deal. I couldn't have been more wrong! I am almost ashamed a little bit that I didn't really understand what it was all about. These students are so lucky to have this place and the special support that they need! I know Mack will cherish this time in his life and so will I. The 2 teachers started out his introduction with the song, "Mack the Knife..." A funny private joke amongst them. I don't think Mack has ever heard the song. SO here it is Mack. This one's for you and the best is yet to come! Congratulations son. He has recently decided to enroll in Hennepin Tech. to learn the welding trade. I am beyond happy!