MANSFIELD, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—GOAL Digital Academy celebrated its largest graduating class in its history on May 16, 2025, honoring 157 students during a ceremony in Mansfield.

The evening commenced with a student-led Pledge of Allegiance by graduating senior Michael Lay of Delaware, Ohio, who is enlisting in the Marine Corps. Superintendent Tish Jenkins welcomed the graduates, their families, friends, staff, and Board of Education members.

Jenkins lauded the academic achievements, resilience, and unique journeys of each student, emphasizing that the Class of 2025 embodies the school’s motto: Known, Valued, and Successful. She acknowledged the support of families, the dedication of GOAL staff across its seven learning labs and two affiliate partners, and encouraged the graduates to be lifelong learners.

School Counselor Angeline Burke announced the top 10% of the graduating class, which included Valedictorian David Mahek and Salutatorian Shelby Lozier, both from GOAL’s Galion Learning Lab.

Five student speakers – Valedictorian David Mahek (Galion Lab), Skyler Andrews (Delaware Lab), Jenna Roof (Galion Lab), Austin Stull (Marion Lab), and Adyson Smith (Delaware Lab) – shared personal reflections on their educational journeys, highlighting perseverance and the impact of GOAL’s virtual learning environment.

English teacher Stephanie Frisch announced the recipients of the 2025 Lifelong Learning Scholarship: Matthew Doubledee (Cardington Lab), Caden Bistline (Mansfield Lab), and Andrea Baker (Delaware Lab). This staff-sponsored scholarship recognizes students demonstrating a commitment to education, personal growth, and community involvement, including those pursuing non-traditional post-secondary paths.

Graduates were recognized with seven distinct honor cords for achievements in academics, attendance, the arts, service, and career readiness.

The ceremony included a moment of silence to honor the memory of senior Gaige Jackson and longtime staff member Missy Clark, who passed away in 2025.

Superintendent Jenkins formally introduced the Class of 2025, describing them as adaptable and resilient, ready to shape the evolving world as they pursue careers, college, military service, entrepreneurship, and other endeavors.

For more information about GOAL Digital Academy, visit goaldigital.org.

Photos: GOAL Digital Academy