A Kentucky high schooler was denied his diploma after going off script and praising Jesus during his graduation speech, according to a report.
Micah Price was given the okay prior to the event to include and praise Jesus Christ in his commencement speech at Campbell County High School in Alexandria, Ky., on May 24.
However, following his address, he began "urging other Christians to stand up," according to the New York Post.
"Class, before another word leaves my mouth, I must give the honor, the praise, and the glory to my lord and savior, Jesus Christ," Price said to a packed Truist Arena at Northern Kentucky University.
His words were well received by the audience, and he was given a round of applause as he continued with his holy message.
When Price geared off track in his speech, school officials were reportedly displeased with his impromptu off-script moment, confronting the graduate after the ceremony. He was then reprimanded by school officials and denied his diploma, the Post reported.
"After the speech was over, one of the principals came in, tapped me on the shoulder, and very politely and professionally told me that I was going to have to go in front of the board and explain what I did because I went off script," Price revealed in a video posted to TikTok on Sunday.
The school district initially approved Price to "thank his lord and savior, Jesus Christ," so long as he stuck to the preapproved script.
Superintendent Shelli Wilson addressed the incident and disclosed that "all speakers were told that going off their submitted speech, or any unplanned choices at graduation, may have repercussions as they would at any school function."
Furthermore, "off-program choices such as speech, signs, and caps in support of any cause or religion, injecting inappropriate language, or political election statements could lead to something other than this outpouring of Christian faith," she added.
Price did admit that he was told to remove his preach prior in order for approval.
The graduate told his TikTok followers that he had no bad blood with Campbell County or the principals as they were "just doing their job."
Taking full responsibility, he stated he went against school policy because "he serves a higher power."
"I do no one's bidding but God. So, if anyone's in the wrong, I am. I deserve to get punished," continued Price, before doubling down to say he'd "do it again times two."
Price did eventually receive his diploma on Wednesday following the long holiday weekend.
@priceproduction High school am i right ♬ original sound - Micah price
