Student says school withheld his diploma after he ‘went off-script’ during graduation speech

ALEXANDRIA, Ky. (WXIX/Gray News) - A recent graduate in Kentucky says his high school withheld his diploma for days after he went off-script while giving a speech during a graduation ceremony.

Micah Price said he ultimately received his diploma, but it was five days after the ceremony was held.

According to Price, he submitted eight drafts of his speech to the school and was told to take out portions that focused heavily on religion.

Price said he took parts out of the final draft, but when the opportunity presented, he “went off-script” while giving the commencement speech.

One of his goals, since fifth grade, was to deliver a speech on his graduation day. But he said he also wanted to honor God.

“I prayed about it a lot,” Price said.

In eighth grade, he became a devoted Baptist.

“My lord and savior is your answer,” Price said in his speech. “He will give you the truth, the way, and the light. I must give the honor, the praise, and the glory to Jesus Christ.”

Price said he went to get the envelope with his diploma after the ceremony when a principal tapped him on the shoulder and told him he would have to talk to the school board.

“I knew it was going to be held,” Price said. “Before you do anything they tell us if you go up there and do a cartwheel or something stupid, it will get your diploma held.”

Despite knowing the consequences, Price said he had to speak from the heart.

“I simply cannot hold back what Christ has done in my life,” Price said. “He’s everything to me.”

Price said he’s joining the Air Force in July. He said the controversy over his speech and his diploma has him considering ministry work.

Representatives with the Campbell County Local School District did not immediately comment regarding the situation.

“I went against the rules. It’s my fault. I should be in trouble. I never wanted to bring hate to them or tear down the school,” Price said.

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