Woman kicked out of school for 1938 pregnancy gets diploma

Iris Weatherwax, 97, receives a kiss from her daughter, Beverly Weatherwax, 70, of Flint, after belatedly being awarded her high school diploma in a private ceremony on Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2017, at her residence in Grand Blanc. Weatherwax was barred from graduating from the Davison Community School District in 1938 because she was pregnant at the time, despite the fact that she was also married. Before Wednesday's ceremony, Weatherwax asked, "Is it alright if I cry?" (Terray Sylvester/The Flint Journal-MLive.com via AP)
Iris Weatherwax, 97, receives a kiss from her daughter, Beverly Weatherwax, 70, of Flint, after belatedly being awarded her high school diploma in a private ceremony on Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2017, at her residence in Grand Blanc. Weatherwax was barred from graduating from the Davison Community School District in 1938 because she was pregnant at the time, despite the fact that she was also married. Before Wednesday's ceremony, Weatherwax asked, "Is it alright if I cry?" (Terray Sylvester/The Flint Journal-MLive.com via AP)

GRAND BLANC TOWNSHIP, Mich. (AP) - A Michigan woman has received her high school diploma eight decades after being forced out of school for being pregnant.

The Flint Journal reports that 97-year-old Iris Weatherwax was given an honorary diploma, cap and gown on Wednesday. She says receiving the diploma was wonderful.

Davison Community Schools Superintendent Eric Lieske says Weatherwax told him that failing to get a high school diploma was one of the biggest regrets of her life.

The school district barred Weatherwax from graduating in 1938 because she became pregnant. She was married at the time.

Paula Clarambeau, Weatherwax's niece, contacted the district to see if her aunt could be awarded a diploma.

Lieske granted the request Wednesday. He says her story shows how important education can mean to someone.

Upcoming Events