This year's graduating class is the largest in several years and more than doubles last year's record-setting class. The graduates include both adult and youth learners who successfully completed the requirements to earn a New York State High School Equivalency diploma.
Family members, friends, colleagues and educators filled the ceremony to celebrate the graduates' accomplishments and the perseverance that brought them to this milestone.
Student speaker, Stephen Satterfield, reflected on the sense of community that defined the program, noting that while each graduate's journey was different, they found strength in one another. Satterfield spoke about the encouragement and acceptance that helped classmates overcome challenges and reach graduation together.
“My peers and teachers allowed me to see, in real time, that just showing up, especially together, can be more powerful than anyone’s individual shortfalls. I now see it is the collective catalyst to every bit of good in our world,” said Satterfield.
Satterfield encouraged fellow graduates to carry that lesson with them as they begin the next chapter.
“As we leave here, I would like us all to remember that struggle, that triumph, that battle is only possible to face when we come together, when we see how our individual stories become so much more potent when they become one story, one battle, and one beating heart. Thank you WSWHE BOCES for becoming my beating heart.”
Graduates plan to enter the workforce, enroll in college and pursue industry certifications as they continue their education and career journeys.
"Over the past several years, we've seen tremendous growth in both our High School Equivalency program and the number of graduates crossing the stage," said Michelle Stockwell, Administrator for Adult Programs at WSWHE BOCES. "That growth reflects not only increased access to educational opportunities, but also the dedication of our students and staff. Every diploma earned represents a life changed, a family inspired and a stronger workforce for our region."
The WSWHE BOCES HSE Preparation Program provides students with a supportive and flexible pathway to earning a high school equivalency diploma. Students receive individualized instruction and learn at their own pace based on their educational needs.
The program serves learners of all ages, helping them build confidence while preparing for college, career training and employment opportunities.
For more information about the High School Equivalency Preparation Program, visit https://www.wswheboces.org/apps/pages/HSE
Photos:
- Graduate Thomas Abad with instructor Frank Finch
- WSWHE BOCES District Superintendent Dr. Parker with Graduate Hudsyn Basque and instructor Frank Finch
- Warren County HSE Program Youth Graduates
More photos can be found on the HSE Facebook page.