“Two road diverged in a wood, and I – I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference in the world.”

Opp High School senior Keshun Ferrell chose a path less taken earlier this school year.

By choice, because he was an older student, Ferrell decided to forgo everyday classroom instruction and take an alternative route.

Ferrell took his entire senior year requirements online.

He had some help with an algebraic connections class through tutoring, but he completed his senior year early.

“Keshun has completed his requirements to graduate,” Opp City Schools Superintendent Michael Smithart said. “He has taken the path less taken and one that a lot of people don’t finish.”

Smithart said that Ferrell handled his classes and the environment well.

“It’s a time to celebrate,” Smithart said. “He earned his diploma. Not many kids get one-on-one teaching to graduate.”

Opp High School Principal Aaron Hightower said that he hopes that Ferrell’s choice to continue school will motivate others who are going through similar situations to achieve and rise above.

“Be a pioneer,” he said.

Hightower credited OHS assistant principal Dr. Amanda Inabinett for her role in putting together Ferrell’s individualized plan.

“You’ve defied a statistic,” he said.

A quiet, but proud Ferrell thanked everyone who gathered for his graduation ceremony at the OCS central office Thursday afternoon.