Well-wishers, including AEC teachers and staff, administrators, and his father, surrounded Michael Teller as his name and photo were added to the prestigious Wall of Achievement.
The Westerville City Schools Educational Options for Success (EOS) program recognized its sixth “Graduate of the Year” (for school year 2016-2017) on Monday, October 2. Michael Teller, a 2017 graduate of Westerville Central High School, completed his graduation requirements through the EOS program, which is located at the Academic Enrichment Center (AEC). Teachers and staff at the AEC select each Graduate of the Year. Attributes considered for this award are perseverance, scholarship, leadership, service, character, responsibility, respect, attitude, loyalty, and integrity.
During his time in EOS (nearly 2½ years), Teller experienced tremendous growth and maturity. His attendance and attention to detail in assignment submissions became increasingly reliable and consistent. Additionally, he held a part-time job, where he worked at least 25 hours each week, and was even chosen by his employer to participate in a highly selective leadership/manager training program. Teller took 18 classes and earned 12½ academic credits while attending EOS. Dr. Scott Ebbrecht, Director of Alternative Education and Assessment, stated during the recognition program, “Michael is a class act who persevered through many of life’s obstacles. He proved time and time again that he could be counted on to attend daily the AEC while maintaining responsibility for both home and work obligations. He truly deserves to have his picture hung in perpetuity on the Wall of Achievement.”
For 17 years, EOS has continued to provide a quality educational alternative for students and their parents. The award-winning and nationally renowned program serves a wide variety of students, and has leveled the playing field to enable the district to gain a competitive advantage over its charter school counterparts. EOS has not only helped hundreds of at-risk pupils to complete their high school education, but it has recouped state funding which is lost when students drop out or leave the district to pursue other educational avenues. Approximately 80 students graduate from EOS each year, representing about eight percent of the district’s annual graduate rate.