'Thank you for not giving up on me': Tulsa teen graduates while in juvenile detention

For most high school seniors, graduation means a cap and gown, proud parents and a walk across the stage. 

For 18-year-old Broncen Antai, it meant turning his life around from inside the Tulsa County Juvenile Detention Center.

Antai is accused of robbing someone with a firearm in November. But during his time in detention, he chose a different path — one focused on self-reflection, education and hope.

“The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result,” Antai said. “One day I woke up and realized I’m looking for something bigger than just me.”

With support from Tulsa Public Schools, Antai showed up every day, determined to earn his high school diploma. Lead teacher Paul Sunday said he remained focused despite the challenges around him.

“He came to school each day ready to work, very stoic and unaffected by any challenges that might be around him,” Sunday said.

Antai is only the second student in the program’s history to graduate while held at the Tulsa County Juvenile Detention Center. His teachers say the accomplishment is just the beginning.

He still faces legal challenges — his attorney expects him to be tried as an adult in June. But Antai has dreams for what comes next, including working with airplane parts and studying aerodynamics.

More than anything, he wants to be a role model for his younger brothers.

“I hope they see me and see that through anything, you can still persevere and do what you want to do,” he said. “And you can make it out on top.”

Education is mandatory for every youth at the center. The program provides instruction tailored to each student’s needs in core subjects like math, art, physical education and counseling.