Superintendent Flies to Guatemala to Deliver Earned Diploma
When ICE detained a high school senior weeks before graduation, his superintendent refused to let him miss the ceremony he earned. Dr. Shawn Wightman took two flights and drove five hours through Guatemala to personally hand-deliver the diploma and hold a private graduation ceremony.
A New York superintendent just proved that some promises are worth flying thousands of miles to keep.
Alvaro Castro Velasquez was weeks away from walking across the stage at Roosevelt High School when ICE detained him during a random encounter. The senior, who had no criminal record and came to the United States alone at 16, was transferred to a detention facility in Texas.
His superintendent, Dr. Shawn Wightman, wasn't about to let his student's hard work go unrecognized. He boarded a flight to Texas with Castro Velasquez's diploma and regalia in hand, paying out of his own pocket.
The Texas facility denied him access to the student. But setbacks often fuel the most determined hearts.
After the failed visit, Castro Velasquez opted for self-deportation to Guatemala. Navigating the immigration system alone as a teenager likely felt overwhelming.
Wightman became even more determined. He took two flights and drove five and a half hours through the Guatemalan foothills to reach his former student.
When they finally reunited, the superintendent didn't just bring a diploma. He brought his own graduation robe and hood, plus Castro Velasquez's cap and gown, creating a full ceremony in Guatemala.
"This is amazing for me," Castro Velasquez told ABC 7 New York. "He helped me and supported me for all this time. I'm not feeling I'm alone."
Sunny's Take
Comments poured in after ABC 7 New York shared the story on Instagram. People couldn't stop talking about Wightman's extraordinary gesture.
"On his own dime," one person wrote. "He should sleep peacefully at night knowing he did something extraordinarily kind."
Another shared, "My heart is so moved by the sheer humanity and compassion of this man. He is a true educator. I pray that this young man will be inspired to keep fighting for his dreams."
When asked why he went to such lengths at his own expense, Wightman's answer was beautifully simple: "You don't abandon people who you care about." That's the kind of educator every student deserves.
More Images
Based on reporting by Upworthy
This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
Spread the positivity!
Share this good news with someone who needs it
