Hollywood Popular Artists

May 17th 2013, 16:43

Mark Wahlberg is one hell of an actor! While he's played many incredible roles throughout his career, the 41-year-old Bostonian dropped out of high school in the 9th grade! Now, determined to set a positive example for young students, he has announced his plans to graduate high school in September...and he wants you to do it with him!

Photo: Congrats Mark! We would insert Emoji confetti in this caption if we could! (Facebook)

+ Watch Mark Wahlberg On One Of His Biggest Regrets.

Today, the Taco Bell Foundation for Teens, Get Schooled, and their celeb ambassador Mark announced the official launch of Graduate for Más -- a program that challenges teens to make a commitment to finish high school. Even in entertainment, Mark feels that his lack of education has held him back. "My job has always been that much more difficult because I didn't pay attention in school," says Mark. "It's such an uphill battle, not having an education, to try to succeed in life."

In addition to cool classes, school dances, and unlimited cafeteria tater tots, staying in school just might earn you a visit from Marky Mark himself! Recently, on his way to the White House to discuss education, he visited T.C. Williams High School. More of T.C.'s students made the Get Schooled promise to graduate from high school than any other school in the nation!

+ Watch Mark Wahlberg On Why He Dropped Out.

Too many distractions, too few positive role models, and a lack of elective and extracurricular courses he was interested in are all major reasons Mark dropped out of high school. "I grew up without the support and resources I needed to stay motivated, so graduation was the last thing on my mind," said Wahlberg. "Today, I see students across the country, like the ones I met at T.C. Williams, struggling under the same circumstances and I know I'm now in a position to help."

Follow the action widgets below to follow in Mark's footsteps and Graduate for Más!

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