Karmelo Anthony, the teen accused of fatally stabbing 17-year-old Austin Metcalf during an altercation at a Frisco track meet on April 2, is on course to graduate from high school and gain his diploma.
Per WFAA, Next Generation Action Network (NGAN), the advocacy group representing Anthony and his family, issued a press release about his graduation. But the Frisco Independent School District emphatically stated that Anthony is prohibited from walking the stage.
Anthony’s bond was initially set at $1 million after he was arrested and charged with first-degree murder. He was, however, ultimately released on April 14 after a judge reduced his bond to $250,000. Anthony’s attorney, Deric Walpole, also previously told reporters that the teen is claiming self-defense.
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NGAN in the press release said Anthony is on course to graduate and earn his diploma, adding that he is not required to attend school for the remainder of the academic year as he has already fulfilled the requisite credits. NGAN also said that an agreement regarding the teen’s graduation was reached between his family and the Frisco ISD, though he is not allowed to “participate in any senior graduation activities.”
Though NGAN did not share the exact details of the agreement, the advocacy group said they “can affirm that Karmelo Anthony will graduate with full credit and a diploma in hand.” NGAN also emphasized that the “agreement does not reflect a position by Frisco ISD on the ongoing legal case, but rather is an example of the district adhering to its academic policies regarding student credit completion and graduation requirements.”
NGAN President Dominique Alexander said that they were “proud to share that Karmelo Anthony will graduate and receive his high school diploma, and that his academic achievements will not be disrupted.”
Alexander added: “NGAN has worked diligently alongside the Anthony family’s legal team to bring about this fair and student-focused resolution. This is a moment of dignity for Karmelo and a reminder of the power of advocacy done right.”
The Frisco ISD in a statement said that it “cannot discuss individual student records” due to “privacy laws.”
Per WFAA, initial reports from some other news outlets had stated that Anthony was set to walk the stage during the graduation ceremony. But in an email sent to Centennial High School staff, students and families, Frisco ISD Superintendent Dr. Mike Waldrip said that was not going to happen.
“Frisco ISD has learned that misinformation is being shared regarding Centennial High School’s graduation via several media outlets and perpetuated through social media. It is disheartening that the incredible accomplishments and achievements of our Centennial seniors may be dampened by needless fear-mongering, attention-seeking, and media vitriol. Our students, staff, and community deserve better,” Waldrip wrote.
“I want to be clear. No student who commits a serious criminal offense (Title V felony) is permitted to participate in the graduation ceremony. Additionally, anyone who trespasses on Frisco ISD property or at a District event will be subject to immediate removal and possible arrest by law enforcement.”
Waldrip continued: “Frisco ISD does not condone violence or crime in our schools or at our events and will not reward or celebrate those who hurt others. We work to ensure every student is safe to learn and feels part of our culture of respect, honor, and integrity.
“Let’s come together as a community to honor and support our students and staff. This moment is about their success, and they deserve our full attention and encouragement. Congratulations to the Centennial Class of 2025!”
