Woman kicked out of school for pregnancy in 1938 gets diploma

GRAND BLANC TOWNSHIP (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 last Wednesday.

She said 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.