Congratulations to Ke’Monnie!

L.C. Bird High School, Class of 2025

Ke’Monnie, a senior at L.C. Bird High School, graduated early this spring—a milestone made possible through her resilience, growth, and the steady support of her Communities In Schools of Chesterfield (CIS-C) Site Coordinator, Ms. Talaya Oxendine.

Ke’Monnie first connected with Ms. Oxendine years ago at Salem Church Middle School. What began as a school-based support relationship quickly evolved into something deeper. “Ms. Oxendine has helped me with my mental health more than anyone,” Ke’Monnie says. “It took a long time to figure out who I am, but I love who I am today.”

Growing up, Ke’Monnie lived in Richmond until she moved to Chesterfield in fifth grade. She is one of sixteen siblings—eight on her mom’s side and eight on her dad’s. Outside of school, she works at McDonald’s and enjoys relaxing with her PS4. But behind the scenes, Ke’Monnie has overcome serious challenges, including a difficult relationship with her mother. Ms. Oxendine played a key role in helping her navigate those hardships, even facilitating family meetings to help rebuild communication and trust at home.

Together, they focused on two major goals: improving Ke’Monnie’s mental health and attendance. “I used to come to school crying every day,” she shared. With time, compassion, and consistency, Ms. Oxendine helped Ke’Monnie develop stronger emotional tools and a greater sense of self-worth.

The progress has been remarkable. Ke’Monnie now describes herself as more open, honest, and confident in how she carries herself. She’s also become more comfortable connecting with new people—something she once found difficult. “My communication is better,” she said. “The way I carry myself is different now.”

What has made the biggest impact? “Ms. Oxendine goes out of her way in a way that no one else has done for me,” Ke’Monnie says. That kind of unwavering support is what makes CIS-C’s approach so meaningful: being a trusted, consistent presence for students who need someone in their corner.

After graduation, Ke’Monnie will work on getting her driver’s license and begin the journey toward becoming a pediatric nurse. With a registered nurse as her mother, caregiving runs in the family—and Ke’Monnie is determined to make a difference for others. Her long-term goals include working in a large hospital and one day owning her own home.

Ke’Monnie’s story is a shining example of how strength, support, and self-discovery can come together to create a powerful future. We are proud to celebrate her early graduation and can’t wait to see all that she accomplishes next.

You can be a part of future students’ graduation success! To invest in the class of 2026, make your donation to Communities In Schools of Chesterfield today!

Read about all of our CIS Class of 2025 Graduates by clicking here.

Ke’Monnie with CIS Site Coordinator Talaya Oxendine