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Following tradition, instructor Lisa Conger-Langway shared some fond and “funny” memories about each graduate. The students then each spoke their “final remarks” (another tradition), which touched the hearts of everyone in attendance.
Danielle D’Amato, a 2001 graduate who currently is a Seaman Apprentice with the United States Navy at Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma and attending Rose State College, made a special appearance and addressed the graduating student body. “If it wasn’t for the A-School, I don’t know what I would have done,” she began her speech. Danielle credits the team of teachers who work at the Center for Alternative Education with preparing her for higher education. “I didn’t think I would get through high school, but I did. I thank the teachers everyday. You have a lot to be proud of. Don’t give up, don’t ever give up.”
Before reciting the words to the Five for Fighting song, “Superman”, Marlene Anderson-Butler, director of Special and Alternative Education at Ulster BOCES, addressed the students. “When I hear this song, I think of you.”
“It’s not easy to be you,” Anderson-Butler reiterated from the words of the song. “It’s a challenge, but you’ve worked very hard and you should be congratulated on a job well done.” The Alternative School 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.
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