In an initiative aimed at ensuring every senior in McPherson High School’s Class of 2025 can walk across the stage to receive their hard-earned diploma, “Operation Walk a Senior” has been born. The campaign seeks to pay off the negative account balances of 41 seniors. The seniors’ debts must be cleared by May 12 for students to receive their diploma certificates and guest tickets for graduation.
Katelyn Cortez, owner of Twice Told Tales, is leading this effort with a simple goal: to see every senior graduate without financial barriers. Cortez is accepting cash and check donations at her shop. Twice Told Tales is also dedicating proceeds from its $1 book sales to the fundraiser, adding new titles to the collection often. Cortez intends to make weekly deliveries to the district office to ensure funds are appropriately allocated. She notes that the effort has grown beyond her expectations, describing the experience as both challenging and heartwarming. Her focus remains on kindness, starting meaningful conversations, and helping students cross the graduation stage.
The fundraiser began as an initiative within McPherson Makerspace and the McPherson Social Outreach League (SOuL), formerly McPherson Coalition for Equity Inclusion and Diversity (MCEID). Kieryn McCann, who works part-time at Twice Told Tales and serves as president of McPherson SOuL, emphasizes the importance of collaboration in making the fundraiser a reality. McCann highlights that collective action lightens the burden on individuals and suggests that this effort could lead to conversations about policy change and larger solutions. McCann praises Cortez for taking the initiative to move the fundraiser forward.
McPherson High School Principal Audrey Herbst and USD 418 Superintendent Dr. Shiloh Vincent have also shared insights on the situation. In a text exchange shared with the McPherson Sentinel, Herbst stated that, regardless of unpaid debt, students will receive their final transcript and all necessary documents to pursue postsecondary plans. She explained that the school holds the paper diploma certificate, which is not technically required. In the exchange, Herbst addressed concerns about families receiving guest tickets to graduation, confirming that while parents may not get tickets if fees are unpaid, they can still watch the ceremony online. Following backlash in online forums, Herbst emphasized that the school does not bar family members from attending the ceremony, stating that the school does not stand at the door to prevent anyone from entering.
In a letter addressed to USD 418 families and community members, Dr. Vincent commended the community for its generosity and assured families that seniors meeting academic requirements will not be excluded from participating in the graduation ceremony. He explained that fees help cover essential resources for students, and while unpaid balances may delay the issuance of printed diplomas or limit guest ticket access, the district remains committed to supporting students during this important time.
Tricia Warring, Founding President of MCEID who is currently pursuing a master’s degree in social work from FHSU, provided valuable insights into how the effort could inspire broader change. She believes the best strategy for shifting the narrative is to focus on the students and emphasize that this effort is about belonging, not blame. She advocates framing the fundraiser as a gift to the Class of 2025, recognizing and honoring their hard work, rather than reacting to a challenge. Warring suggests using diverse communication platforms like social media, flyers, community newsletters, and partnerships with trusted organizations to reach broader audiences. She also recommends inviting people to contribute in various ways, from donating funds to sharing posts, to make the effort collaborative and empowering.
Warring suggests creating programs that offer proactive financial support, such as auto-enrolling eligible families in free or reduced lunch programs and fee waivers, all communicated clearly and accessibly. Warring believes a “Senior Hardship Fund” managed by community partners or the district would be a viable and effective solution if it is simple to access, protects student dignity and privacy, and includes public and private funding. She also stresses the importance of long-term outreach and education efforts, such as financial literacy programs for families, consistent communication about support options, and building sustained community-school partnerships. Warring further recommends that schools propose realistic policy changes, including decoupling graduation participation from unpaid balances, offering payment plans for families receiving SNAP or Medicaid, and passing a resolution that no child will be held back due to debt.
Cortez is considering future events, such as a community BBQ celebration in the park, to honor seniors and their families. While the feasibility of such an event depends on the capacity of those involved, the idea reflects the community’s dedication to celebrating its students and supporting their success.
Community members are encouraged to visit Twice Told Tales to browse the $1 book collection, contribute donations, or explore volunteer opportunities. For more information or to make a donation, contact Katelyn Cortez at hello@twicetoldtales.net or call 620-504-9445.
