Graduate With Down Syndrome Breaks Into Exuberant Dance Crossing Stage To Get Diploma.

To the students at Midland Lee High School in Midland, Texas, Carlos Neira is known as “Mr. Joyous.”

Carlos’ joy was on full display at the school’s 2018 graduation ceremony, and now video of his exuberant trip down the diploma line is going viral. Carlos is nineteen and looking forward to heading to college next year. He was also born with Down syndrome.

Carlos Neira dances at graduation
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Carlos was the last of eight children born to Teresa Neira, and Teresa says she made sure to treat her youngest just as she had raised her other kids. Perhaps this parenting approach is why Carlos has always fit right in with his peers at school, and why his confidence is so inspiring to all who see him.

Teresa says Carlos has always been a happy kid, and he finds strength and joy in his strong Christian faith. “He’s given us an example of sharing, of love, of happiness,” she said. “Nothing gets him down. He looks up and points to God. God. He’s full of faith. Lots of faith.”


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During the graduation ceremony, Teresa says she was blown away when she realized how popular their son was with his peers. “To our great surprise, they say ‘Carlos Neira’ and the whole world, the men in front of us and everyone recording, they started asking, ‘Oh my God! Who is he?’ Jeez! As if he was the president’s son or something,” Teresa said with a laugh.


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Carlos’ joy is infectious! As soon as his name is called, the young man starts jumping up and down, then proceeds to boogie his way down the line, shaking hands and posing for pictures.


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The high school later shared a video of the moment on Facebook, captioning it:

“One of the greatest things about being part of graduation is celebrating the accomplishments of our students! We wanted to share a video with you of a very special graduate, Carlos Neria, who danced across the stage with the greatest joy and enthusiasm as he received his high school diploma! We are so proud of you Carlos and proud of all of our 2018 graduates!”


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Carlos will be attending Life College next, hoping to get a job where he can put his outstanding people skills to work in an outward-facing role. Something tells us this go-getter is going to be hugely successful in whatever career he chooses!

Watch “Mr. Joyful” gleefully accept his high school diploma in the video below, and be sure to share to put a smile on someone’s face today.

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