Home / Education / Schools Honor Fallen Students Lost to Violence
Schools Honor Fallen Students Lost to Violence
9 Jun
Summary
- Schools are honoring students who died before graduation.
- Messages and certificates recognize students lost to violence.
- A group advocates for honoring these young lives.
Union County schools are implementing new practices to honor students who passed away before completing their education. These heartfelt tributes are part of graduation ceremonies, recognizing young individuals who lost their lives prematurely due to violence.
At Monroe High School, messages celebrated aspiring nurse Nevaeh Carter, who was killed in a drive-by shooting in May 2025. Her friends displayed her image on their graduation attire. Monroe Middle School honored 12-year-old Messiah Barrino, who also died in a 2024 drive-by shooting, presenting his mother with a certificate.
These honors were championed by Tina Sykes-Mosley, founder of Mothers Advocating for Real Change and Unwavering Support. Her advocacy, following the loss of students like Porter Ridge's son and Kemauri, led to changes in district graduation guidelines, allowing for these moments of remembrance.
While many students were honored, 13-year-old Loyalti Allah, who died the summer before starting high school, was not recognized at Monroe High. Sykes-Mosley plans to honor Allah at an upcoming community event. These recognitions aim to validate the lives and legacies of students lost too soon.
