TOPEKA ? Topeka students and parents are pleased with news that first lady Michelle Obama has changed her plans to speak to high school graduates in northeast Kansas.

The first lady says Thursday that she will be speak to the 800 graduates on May 16 during a “senior recognition day,” leaving the following day to the students and their families.

Abbey Rubottom says the changes were welcomed and would keep the focus of graduation on the students and not deny families a place in the 8,000-seat arena.

One mother, Tina Hernandez, says she’s excited about the new schedule and that Obama will be able to speak to the students without disrupting the traditional practice of separate graduation ceremonies.

Hernandez says the change shows Obama is a mom, too, and understands.