All schools in Upshur County will close at 1 p.m. today. All B-UHS sporting events today are canceled.

Necco Foster Care celebrates largest graduating class in its history

Necco Foster Care celebrated its largest graduating class ever, as 104 youth across four states earned high school, college, trade school diplomas, or GEDs, surpassing national foster care graduation rates.

Necco Foster Care is proud to announce a major milestone: a record-breaking 104 young people in its care have graduated from high school, college, trade school or earned their GED as part of the Class of 2025. This marks the largest graduating class Necco has ever celebrated, with students across Ohio, Kentucky, Georgia, and West Virginia stepping into their next chapter with hope, resilience, and a strong foundation.

This achievement is more than a number. National studies show that less than half of youth raised in foster care graduate from high school, and just 2–6% complete a two-year college degree. These statistics underscore the magnitude of Necco’s accomplishment and reflect its unwavering commitment to empowering youth through education, stability, and care.

“With 104 graduates, this is the largest group we’ve ever celebrated as a company — a milestone that reflects the power of living with purpose,” said Rob Goodwin, Chief People Officer at Necco. “Our mission is changing lives, and through that mission, we don’t just transform the lives of children — they inspire us too. Their growth and resilience remind us why we do what we do.”

Each graduate represents a story of strength and determination — made possible by the dedication of Necco staff, foster parents, mentors, and the greater community. Many of the graduates are pursuing college, trade school, or workforce opportunities, proving that with support, anything is possible.

To learn more about Necco’s mission or how to become a foster parent, visit www.necco.org.

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