For Laffeyette Thompson, the road to earning his high school diploma was far from traditional. But his journey – filled with resilience, determination, and a newfound passion for helping others – is one worth celebrating. He graduated from Excel Academy North in February 2024 and today is a role model for youth in Philadelphia, showing what’s possible when you embrace change and persevere through challenges.
Overcoming Early Challenges
Growing up in the Strawberry Mansion neighborhood, Thompson, the second youngest of seven siblings, faced significant hurdles in his education. For example, at one academy, he encountered discouragement rather than support. A principal at the school suggested he drop out and pursue a GED instead, a moment that deeply affected him. “It felt like they had already written me off,” he said.
In the summer of 2023, Thompson was working at a movie theater when managers dismissed him as a “nobody.” Determined to prove otherwise, he took a job as a delivery driver for Insomnia Cookies. While at Walmart to buy a bike he could use in his new job, he reconnected with an old friend, who suggested Thompson enroll at Excel Academy North. This recommendation served as a turning point.
Finding His Path at Excel Academy North
Enrolling at Excel North in 2023 gave Thompson a fresh start. While initially reserved and “a ghost to everyone,” he gradually found his footing, thanks to the encouragement of his counselor, many teachers and the supportive environment. One pivotal experience was participating in Temple University’s Center for Conflict Management and Media Impact Youth Conflict Specialists program. The program, aiming to reduce violence among young people in North Philadelphia, taught Thompson valuable skills in managing and facilitating conflict, not just for others but within himself.
“I learned how to avoid conflict and help others do the same,” he said. These lessons resonated deeply, inspiring him to become a youth conflict counselor after completing the program.
Thompson’s dedication didn’t go unnoticed. Tricia Jones, the director of the program, invited him to teach conflict resolution at schools across Philadelphia. This past summer he started at Thomas Elementary and later worked with Excel Academy’s South and Central campuses. Teaching kids and even adults how to handle conflict became a transformative experience.
“When I walk into these schools, I see kids like me,” he said. “It feels great to give them the push to try. At Excel, they’ll ask me, ‘Did you really go here?’ and I tell them it’s all about focusing on what you’re doing.”
He said that Jones recognized his natural connection with children. “Whenever I’m with the kids, I try to make them feel comfortable and make them laugh. When she said I could actually teach, it was so encouraging.”
A Bright Future Ahead
Balancing roles as a part-time youth conflict counselor and a shift leader for Insomnia Cookies, Thompson has ambitious plans. He dreams of attending college, exploring fields like architecture, teaching, or social media management. His work has instilled confidence that he can achieve anything he sets out to do.
“This job makes you hate conflict because you deal with it every day,” he said, “but it matures you and gives you a different understanding of people.”
Thompson’s journey from undervalued student and employee to graduate who inspires others as a mentor and leader is proof that it’s never too late to rewrite your story. His path may have been unconventional, but it’s one that’s paving the way for a brighter future – for himself and the countless youth he’s inspiring along the way.
Enroll today or schedule a tour to learn how we can help you achieve your goals just like Laffeyette!