Against all odds: Jacksonville homeless student to graduate as valedictorian, attend college

Congratulations, Martin!

Despite being homeless and having spent time living in shelters with his mother, Folsom served as class president his freshman through senior year, and is is set to graduate at the top of his class as valedictorian.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – If anyone knows what it’s like to overcome, it’s A. Philip Randolph Career Academies senior Martin Folsom.

Despite being homeless and having spent time living in shelters with his mother, Folsom served as class president his freshman through senior year, and is is set to graduate at the top of his class as valedictorian.

Duval County Public Schools highlighted Folsom on its website.

“It’s been a rocky road, a lot of hardships," Folsom said. "But seeing myself now about to graduate, about to go to college — it feels good knowing all the stuff I’ve done was worth it.”

RELATED | News4Jax honors Class of 2020 with ‘Brightest and Best’

Folsom now plans to study accounting and finance at Valdosta State.

Martin and his class will be recognized on Channel 4 during the June 6 edition of Brightest and Best.

Watch below to learn more about what has kept him motivated in the midst of challenging times. Click here to see more local graduating seniors.


About the Author:

Carianne Luter is an Award-Winning Digital Media and Engagement Manager for News4Jax and has worked at Channel 4 since December 2015. She won "Best Social Media Engagement Strategy" during the Local Media Association 2022 Digital Innovation Awards. She graduated from the University of North Florida with a communication degree.