Patricia Jernigan receives her diploma during the Oxford High graduation ceremony in Oxford, Miss. on Friday, May 19, 2023. (©Bruce Newman)

Roman Gregory, right, receives his diploma from school board member Lolita Gregory during the Oxford High graduation ceremony in Oxford, Miss. on Friday, May 19, 2023. (©Bruce Newman)

Henry Hyneman gives a thumbs up to the crowd at Oxford High graduation ceremony in Oxford, Miss. on Friday, May 19, 2023. (©Bruce Newman)

Graduates toss their caps into the air at the conclusion of Oxford High graduation ceremony in Oxford, Miss. on Friday, May 19, 2023. (©Bruce Newman)