Hot Springs student perseveres to late graduation

HOT SPRINGS – At the monthly meeting of the Hot Springs school board, last week, there was one unofficial piece of business needing to be attended to – a student’s graduation ceremony.

Earl Cook received his Hot Springs High School diploma last week, having completed all of his course work. He was scheduled to graduate in 2015, but had not gained all of the credits needed for graduation. Cook stayed on, though, and pushed to complete the final few classes he needed.

Principal Kelly Moore presented Cook with his diploma before a gathering of his family and members of the school staff. Moore also gave a small speech commending the student for his hard work over the years at the school; it was also noted how good it is Cook stayed with his studies and pressed on to graduation, since many other students might just stop in the same situation.

Immediately after the ceremony, and before the board meeting began, the gathered family and board members enjoyed a brief reception of cake and drinks.