First class of online students graduates in person

Around two-thirds of the 21 graduates from Douglas County’s first online public school received their diplomas at an in-person ceremony on Friday.

Five Douglas Nevada Online members of the class of 2022 graduated with advanced diplomas.

Kaitlyn Anderson, Kasen Boggs, Wynter Cuzzort, Bren Andrea Duma-og, Sophia Garedakis and Dakota Jones received advanced diplomas from the school.

The online school’s graduation ceremony was conducted at the CVIC Hall in Minden as friends and family watched.

Douglas Nevada Online was established in August 2020 as an alternative for students in 4^th-12^th grade to answer concerns for those who didn’t want to risk attending classes in person during the coronavirus outbreak.

During its first semester, the free online school had the second largest enrollment in Douglas County with 855 students in September 2020. At last count, the school had 77 students enrolled.

Students said they chose to go online for various reasons. Some needed a more flexible schedule, some needed to work at their own pace and some needed to eliminate social distraction.

“My best memories of DNO are doing school at home when I feel it is convenient,” said Naomi Dickens.

Layne Kelly, a junior, also graduated with the class of 2022. He said that he worked incredibly hard to get through his schoolwork and graduate with this class.

“It is very weird and exciting, “said Kelly.

Kelly plans to start his own business and be a welder.

“This DNO class may be ending their era of high school but starting a new era for students who want to learn differently.

The online school will transition to grades 6-12 next year and operated out of ASPIRE High School, where the teachers will be offering educational support.

Superintendent of Schools Keith Lewis said he is confident that these students are prepared for whatever comes their way.

“I know you are ready to tackle the challenges that lie ahead as you pursue your future goals. I have no doubt you are ready for new opportunities and I’m sure you all welcome the changes that await you,” he said.