The HFM BOCES Adirondack Academy Alternative High School Program recently celebrated the perseverance, determination, and adaptability of 19 students who successfully completed the program and are set to receive their high school diplomas from their home school districts.
The ceremony was held on Thursday, June 13 on the campus of SUNY Fulton-Montgomery Community College before a crowd filled with family members, friends, teachers, and administrators.
In her address to the program completers, Adirondack Academy Principal Christine Carioto remarked on the dedication exhibited by the group throughout their time at ADK.
“Each of you has shown incredible perseverance, determination, and adaptability. You each have your own story based on your own unique journey. The path that led you to today was not always the easiest, but it was one that allowed you to discover your strengths, confront your challenges, and ultimately, to thrive,” said Carioto.
Adirondack Academy is specifically designed to help students who have encountered obstacles in the regular school setting. ADK’s alternative education emphasizes small class sizes and close relationships with teachers, staff and administrators.
Julie Blanchard, a school counselor at Adirondack Academy, also spoke to this year’s completers. Blanchard encouraged the students to remember the lessons learned and to use their ability to adapt and see obstacles as opportunities.
“Life will always present new challenges, but you have already proven what it takes to overcome them,” said Blanchard.
The ceremony also included student speeches from Christopher Rumrill and Jeremiah Norris, both of whom thanked teachers and staff for their support and guidance throughout their time at Adirondack Academy. Thomas Halloran, a social studies teacher at ADK, recited a poem that he composed. Robbie Jean Taylor, an alumna of Adirondack Academy, was also in attendance and provided words of encouragement to the class of 2024 completers.
In her closing remarks, Carioto reminded the students that their journey doesn’t end at ADK.
“As you step forward into the next chapter of your lives, take with you the lessons learned and the confidence you have gained. The resilience you have developed here will help guide you in whatever paths you choose to follow,” said Carioto.
Blanchard, who is set to retire at the end of the school year, left the students with another piece of advice.
“Graduates; keep striving, keep learning and keep believing in your own potential. You are capable of incredible things!”
Students recognized at the ceremony include Aidin Austin, Alexander Badger, Dakota Bates, Justin Brindamour, Kendra Brooker, Christopher Brownell, Nathan DePietro, Lilly Heavner, Charlie Rose Hogan, Alayna Johnson, Connor Lalli-Casey, Jason Morrison, Jeremiah Norris, Kaaleigh O’Brien, Calvin Palmer, Randolph Ricci III, Christopher Rumrill, James Shear, and Owen Ward
