June 2007
Contact: Judy A. Herron
(845) 255-1400 xt. 1209

Ulster BOCES Recognizes Students Once “At-Risk” Who Have Now Earned Their High School Diplomas

Across Ulster County, seniors are graduating from high school and beginning a new phase in their lives.

For the typical student, this was always the plan; something they had been counting on achieving for years. But, for a group of students at the Ulster BOCES Center for Alternative Education, graduation was not always the crystal clear vision they saw in the future. These students were once deemed “at-risk” of dropping out of high school.

Many of them have overcome insurmountable odds to be successful and were recently recognized for completing their graduation requirements at a special achievement ceremony held at the Center for Alternative Education in Port Ewen. There were tears of happiness from family, friends, and staff when the graduating students, clad in full graduation regalia, were recognized through a personalized ceremony that addressed their individual accomplishments and achievements. During the ceremony, a number of students took to the microphone to share their own touching thoughts on their achievements and how their teachers, staff, and families encouraged them along the way.

“This year’s senior class is quite unique. Perhaps it is the most diverse group of students who will ever be recognized for their accomplishments here at the Center for Alternative Education,” said Principal Rosemary Mannino. “These students came to us from a variety of backgrounds and have overcome many obstacles. They have learned to embrace each other’s differences, creating a welcoming school community. They are amazingly resilient and were recognized for their journeys and accomplishment of earning a high school diploma.” Principal Mannino also spoke of each student’s personal success while attending the Center for Alternative Education, and left them with some final parting words. “Each one of you are special to me and I’m thankful to know each and every one of you,” remarked Mannino in closing, reminding the graduates to, “Have fun. Work hard. And above all, be yourselves.”

Barbara Zolnowski, supervisor for the Ulster BOCES Special Education program at Highland, also offered her congratulations to the Class of 2007 by saying, “You have realized that you have talents and skills. Life is not always easy and there will be many obstacles to overcome. Now is the time to reflect back on what you have achieved. Be grateful for the friends you have made and look forward to a new beginning. Make promises to make the world a better place. Stay safe, be happy, and be proud of who you are.”

The Center for Alternative Education offers a full academic program approved by the New York State Education Department. Students receive academic credits for their coursework and upon completion of all required coursework and exams, earn their high school diplomas from their home school districts.

The mission of the school is to provide at-risk students with additional chances for success in a safe, supportive school community. Students are able to reconnect with themselves, and others, as well as establish career goals through creative academic and hands-on learning experiences. The program’s objective is to reduce the dropout rate by improving attendance and completion of academic goals.