Schools Superintendent Dr. Arlene Ackerman praised the seniors of South Philadelphia High for their perseverance and commitment.
"One of the reasons I wanted to be here is because I feel that we've been through a lot," she said.
It began in December when racial tensions at the school boiled over. A group of mostly African-American students led a daylong series of attacks on Asian students.
Dr. Ackerman came under fire after critics accused her of downplaying the problems at the school. It only worsened when it was learned the school's principal, LaGreta Brown, didn't have an active state principal certificate.
"Often the reputation of many can be defined by the actions of a few but you, the many out here, have made a difference," said Dr. Ackerman.
One graduate couldn't agree more.
"It feels great because not everybody at the school is like that and for the public to know not everybody is like that, it feels great," said Rheane Thorpe.
We tried to speak with several Asian graduates about the problems of the past, but none wanted to comment on what they went through at the school.
Instead, they were just thrilled about being graduates.
"I feel happy and so proud I can graduate from South Philadelphia High School," said Wei Chen.
