When asked to describe himself in three words, Oakland High School student, Kevin Lockett, said he only needed two. “A. Winner.”   

Oakland’s Graduation Specialist, Ms. Sherry Galston, noticed that drive and intentionality in Kevin as well as his respectful and kind presence. “He has a charisma that is very personable and loving.”  

Kevin credits the support of staff at Oakland for his ability to keep winning during his high school career. “It’s the kind of support where even if I have to show up on your doorstep, we are going to get you graduated,” said Galston.    

Kevin shared about his high school experience and his plans to keep on winning as he looks ahead. 

What’s an accomplishment you’re proud of?   

The accomplishment that I'm most proud of is that I went to Washington Youth ChalleNGe Academy, and it put me on a path to come back to Oakland, to get all my credits and to graduate. It put me in a whole different situation than I was in before I went. Actually, I got ahead in school and even finished a couple months early, which feels awesome!  

Where have you shown the most grit?  

This year I went through a lot. Both my big brother and my really close friend passed away. It put me in a really, really low point in my life because those were the two people who really supported me and were the closest to me. I think back on all the moments we had, and I want to succeed for them. I know they would be proud.   

What are your plans for next year?  

My plan is to get into the workforce. I want to start working and provide for my family. My plan is to apply at Boeing and work with my dad. Honestly, it sounds fun to be working with my dad as he would probably be the one training me. He is super proud of that legacy.   

I'm looking forward to being in a position to win. For me, that means being on top of your business. I want to have a job, have something going for myself, and be really intentional. I want to have my day planned out for myself and stick with it. Make a plan. Get on track. Make it happen.   

How has your school experience helped prepare you for that pathway?   

At Oakland, you have to be comfortable with the uncomfortable. You have to stay focused, or you won’t succeed. It kept me focused on the right track.  

My experience has also been really fun. There are so many people and big personalities that you meet. All the teachers want to help you succeed and know that you can succeed. It’s a school I think people should really be interested in because there is so much support.   

What’s something your biggest fan would say about you?  

They would say he's a really energetic kid. He likes to feed off the energy in the room and can bring his own energy. I like to smile a lot, and I like to make people smile. I like to make people feel warm and welcome.