Drexel Academy In Tulsa Celebrates First Graduating Class

Drexel Academy is celebrating a special milestone Friday. It’s the first time a full class has graduated from the school since its start in 2016.

But beyond the tassels, caps, and gowns was a deeper meaning for the day.

"We just want to bring back of entrepreneurship the spirit of Greenwood back in our community and raise up young people," said Drexel President Tim Newton. 

Newton said the school was built to give kids a better education in the northern Tulsa area. The school serves Pre-K through 5th grade students with smaller class sizes are smaller and a more rigorous curriculum.

Despite the challenges of distance learning last year, Newton said every student was successful.

"To know that we're on the cusp of the 100th Centennial of the Race Massacre and I was a young man [who] had an idea to start a school in North Tulsa. Then to see people - black, white - say 'let's educate our boys and girls,' 'let's do something different.' That means everything to me," Newton told News on 6. 

"I think it means that I'm finally moving onto the next phase of my life," said Valedictorian Ronald Randle. Randle is going on to Tulsa School of Arts and Sciences this fall. He said he has some advice for other students who want to succeed.

"I just say 'you can do it!'" Randle said. 

"To have parents and people all of the city to believe in the school, this little school in North Tulsa, it means everything to me," Newton said. 

Drexel Academy is a tuition-free elementary school that runs 100 percent on donations.