06/12/2026
Today, we are celebrating our outstanding 2026 DuPagePads Grads! Join us in congratulating seven 8th graders and two high school graduates, whose hard work and dedication are inspiring to all of us. One special student who graduated from 8th grade this year is Allen, pictured with our Education Specialist Kimberly on his graduation day! Kimberly began working with Allen when he arrived at the Interim Housing Center as a 5th grader. As a child experiencing homelessness, Allen struggled in many ways. As he entered middle school, he was missing more days of school than he was attending, and his reading level was below where it should be. Kimberly became Allen’s advocate, attending IEP meetings with him and his father, encouraging tutoring, and offering support. In his final year of middle school, she saw him grow. His behavior and grades improved, and we are so proud to see him walk across the stage!
Thank you for supporting students like Allen, and for reminding us that when someone believes in you, everything can change. On , help us give a special shoutout to all our graduates, the DuPagePads education team, our volunteer tutors, and of course, the teachers who work with our students each day!
