The Nebraska Correctional Youth Facility (NCYF) hosted the spring high school graduation ceremony on March 20. 
NCYF Community High School had 10 high school graduates and two state of Nebraska high school graduates that were recognized. There were five individuals present to receive their diploma. 
The NCYF Community high school opened in January 2008, and has since had 335 high school graduates and 54 GED graduates. 
Regardless of age, students throughout the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS) are able to participate in the high school program if it is deemed appropriate for them. Teachers at all NDCS sites collaborate to ensure students in the high school program can complete their education even if they change facilities.
Joseph DiCostanzo from Omaha Benson High School was the guest speaker during NCYF’s recent graduation ceremony. Assistant Warden Trish Bernhards announced graduates and Director Scott Frakes awarded graduates with their diplomas. Principal Susan Harder presented graduates and instructed them to move their tassels. 
During the closing, Warden Ryan Mahr read a quote: “That diploma you hold in your hands today is really just your learner’s permit for the rest of the drive through life. Remember, you don’t have to be smarter than the next person, all you have to do is be willing to work harder than the next person.” 
Congratulations, graduates!