DECATUR, Ill. (WCIA) — Graduation season is a time for celebration, and this year it holds even greater significance for a group of students in Decatur. Not only did these students have the opportunity to walk across the stage, but they did so with added flair.

On Friday, students from Futures Unlimited and Milligan Academy got the chance to graduate wearing a cap and gown. In past years, they couldn’t afford this ceremony. A school counselor mentioned that this marks the first time a group from the school has been able to experience this opportunity.

More than 55 students at the school in Decatur walked across the stage wearing the typical graduation attire.

“It gives that traditional vibe, and many of our students have mentioned wishing for such an experience, similar to what their previous schools would have provided,” said counselor Kyla Poland. “Offering them that experience here is truly special.”

But what’s not typical is actually seeing students in a cap and gown.

“I’ve been with the programs for about six to seven years, and in that timeframe, we haven’t had caps and gowns,” Poland said.

But then.

“We are able to purchase the gowns and caps and tassels for our students through a ‘She Gave’ grant,” Poland said.

The funding came through the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation. Last year, they got nearly $4,000 for ceremonial attire, and this year they received $4,500. Students said not only are they happy to wear the graduation attire, they’re also proud to make it through the finish line.

“For me it means that I am blessed for one and also means a lot to even be right here and graduating early,” said graduate Rickiya Neal.

Rickiya Neal is thankful to cherish this moment with her loved ones. Her mom Lawanda has been diagnosed with sickle cell since birth.

“It’s God, much prayer because it was hard for her,” Lawanda Neal said. “A lot of times she had to miss school because I went into a crisis. Sometimes she was in school worried about me, knowing I went into a crisis. She goes and thank God for Futures.”

She said now she’s blessed to see her daughter become a high school graduate.

“I can’t wait to see what’s next in her own business,” Lawanda said. “And I’m praying to God, keep me here to see that.”

Rickiya said she’ll be working at Bath & Body Works and pursuing a career in cosmetology.