Advocacy group Next Generation Action Network says Karmelo Anthony is set to graduate but not walk after the family reached an agreement with Frisco ISD.
FRISCO, Texas — Karmelo Anthony, the teen accused of stabbing another teen at a track meet in Frisco last month, is set to graduate from high school and receive his diploma, an advocacy group representing his family says.
Anthony will not walk the stage, according to Frisco ISD.
Anthony, a 17-year-old student at Frisco Centennial High School, was arrested and charged with murder for fatally stabbing Frisco Memorial High School student athlete Austin Metcalf on April 2 at the University Interscholastic League’s District 11-5A championship track meet at Frisco ISD’s Kuykendall Stadium. He’s since been released from jail and placed under house arrest after his bond was reduced from $1 million to $250,000.
Now, the advocacy group Next Generation Action Network, which previously organized a press conference on behalf of the Anthony family, says Anthony is set to graduate and receive his diploma without the need to attend school for the final month and a half of the academic year after completing the necessary credits and after his family reached an agreement with Frisco ISD, but will not “participate in any senior graduation activities,” according to a press release.
Frisco ISD initially declined to comment, citing privacy laws, sending WFAA the following statement: “Due to privacy laws, Frisco ISD cannot discuss individual student records.”
Next Generation Action Network declined to provide details about the specific terms of the agreement they say was reached, but said in a press release that they “can affirm that Karmelo Anthony will graduate with full credit and a diploma in hand.” In the press release, Next Generation Action Network also noted 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.”
“We are proud to share that Karmelo Anthony will graduate and receive his high school diploma, and that his academic achievements will not be disrupted,” said Next Generation Action Network President Dominique Alexander. “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.”
Other outlets falsely reported that Anthony would walk the stage on graduation day, Frisco ISD Superintendent Dr. Mike Waldrip wrote in an email sent to Centennial High School staff, students and families:
“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.
“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.
“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!”