The HFM BOCES Adirondack Academy Alternative Education program celebrated the achievements of 20 local high school students during a completion ceremony on Tuesday, June 13.
A group of Adirondack Academy students pose for a photo at the completion ceremony.
Tuesday’s ceremony was held on the campus of SUNY Fulton-Montgomery Community College before an audience filled with family members, friends, teachers, and administrators. The students who completed Adirondack Academy are now set to receive their high school diplomas from their home school district.
“The path that led each of you to this stage has been far from easy,” said Adirondack Academy Principal Christine Carioto. “The strength and courage you have demonstrated while facing these challenges is nothing short of impressive.”
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.
Student speaker Robbie-Jean Taylor told the audience that when she became a student at ADK, she finally found her potential.
“I began to care because I knew I could do amazing things and that there was somebody rooting for me,” she said. “With my determination, power, and the support of everyone in this room, I am able to call myself a class of 2023 graduate!”
Kamri Ahrens, another ADK completer, also addressed her fellow classmates.
Adirondack Academy student Kamri Ahrens stands at the podium while delivering a speech to her fellow classmates during the Adirondack Academy completion ceremony.
“Remember that with the bad always comes the good, and never let anyone or anything get in the way of what you deserve, even if that person in the way is you.”
In her closing remarks, Carioto expressed her deepest admiration for each one of the students.
“As we celebrate your achievements, it is important to acknowledge the immense power that lies within each of you,” she stated. “Now you stand as beacons of hope for others who may be walking a similar path.”
Students recognized at the ceremony include Kamri Ahrens, Gavin Bown, Cameron Brownell, Holden Consorte, Mackenzie Cruzado, Nicholas DiMezza, Jr., Kaitlyn Driscoll, Austin Eagan, Jayden Green, Erin LaPort, Grant Mattice, Deidre Rodeo, Tristan Ryan, Amani Santana, William Shear, Robbie Jean Taylor, Tyler Taylor, Jaiden Ward, Naomi Warn, and Tyler Wojcik.
