June 21, 2001
Contact: Holly Brooker
(845) 255-1450 xt.1301

Each year the ceremony is personalized to address the achievements of each of the students. Guests witnessed heartfelt exchanges between students and staff, reinforcing the deep caring and bond that is a trademark of the school’s setting. Following tradition, instructor Mike Brown shared some fond and “funny” memories about each graduate. The students then each spoke their “final remarks,” another tradition, which brought tears to everyone’s eyes.

Crystal, a 2000 graduate who currently is attending Ulster County Community College, also made a special appearance and addressed the students. “Last year I sat right where you are, right there in the front row,” Crystal reminisced. “Once, I had no appreciation for school,” she began to tell the audience. “Ms. Barlow, your work did prepare me for college. I became motivated enough to enroll in Ulster County Community College and I received an A in Art and an A- in English,” she proudly shared. Crystal credits Barlow (who was her former English teacher at the Alternative School) with preparing her for higher education.

“So do not stop here,” Crystal implored the students. “There will be plenty of opportunities in the world for you. You’ve made it up a big mountain. Let the world be at your feet.”

“You have overcome incredible obstacles. Nothing can stand in your way,” proclaimed Rosemary Mannino, acting principal of the Alternative School. “I am very grateful for the lessons you have taught me. The human spirit is remarkable. You are a testament to this.”

Virginia Murchison, director of Special and Alternative Education at Ulster BOCES, spoke poignantly to the students. “This is a milestone in my life as well,” she began, explaining that in eight months she will be retiring from her position at Ulster BOCES after eight years of service. “Remember, this is not an end or conclusion to a portion of your life, but rather a time to prepare you for the rest of it, just as I will continue on with mine after I retire. You have all worked hard to overcome the adversities of your life. May the future be yours!”

One of the highlights of the ceremony was when senior Danielle fom the Onteora Central School District, was presented a Montgomery GI Bill scholarship check in the amount of $23,400 from Eric A. Eberius, STGCS (SW), a United States Navy recruiter. Danielle, who just completed the Culinary Arts program at the Ulster BOCES Career & Technical Center, has enlisted in the United States Navy where she will continue her culinary studies.

The Alternative School (affectionately called the “A” School by students and staff) 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.