RIO RANCHO, N.M. (KOAT) – A dream has come true for a 99-year-old Navajo woman in New Mexico.
Unci Rita Long Visitor Holy Dance never graduated high school.
She had just finished eighth grade but had to put school on hold to take care of her ill mother.
This week, all that changed.
With the help of the International Council of 13 Indigenous Grandmothers and Rita’s family, she was able to receive her diploma from Rio Rancho High School.
During the special ceremony, Rita said it was a big surprise.
Her son said the biggest lesson he learned from his mother is to never do anything halfway.
The superintendent of Rio Rancho Schools said she thinks this is a moment that will stick with her students.
Copyright 2024 KOAT via CNN Newsource. All rights reserved.