WAPPINGERS FALLS- Abilities First celebrated the accomplishments of 331 students during graduation and moving-up ceremonies held across its schools in Dutchess and Orange counties, recognizing the progress of children and young adults with developmental disabilities and the support of their families and educators.
The nonprofit organization honored students at six ceremonies this spring, including preschoolers advancing to kindergarten, students moving to the next stage of their education and graduates completing their programs.
“It has been incredibly heartwarming to watch our graduates, and students moving up to new opportunities, as they have progressed with the love and strength of their inspiring families and our devoted faculty and staff,” Abilities First CEO Dr. Jeffery Fox said. “Heartfelt congratulations to all; you deserve praise for all the work you have done together.”
At the Myers Corners Education Center in Wappingers Falls, 73 preschool students were recognized, including 40 graduates moving on to kindergarten and 33 students advancing to the next level. During the ceremony, students performed songs they had practiced throughout the year before crossing a small wooden bridge to receive their diplomas.
For Michael Jeanniton, the ceremony marked an important milestone for his son, Damian.
“The Abilities First program has been a great experience for Damian,” Jeanniton said. “He’s changed so much since the beginning. His communication skills have grown a lot since the start of the school year.”
Myers Corners Principal Marissa St. John said she looks forward to seeing students continue to build on the progress they have made.
At the Abilities First School in LaGrange, graduates Jeffrey Mansfield and Sean Dylewski received diplomas during a ceremony highlighting their achievements and perseverance.
Principal Jeff Noto praised both graduates for the qualities they brought to the school community, describing Mansfield as kind and witty and Dylewski as compassionate with a strong sense of humor.
“Jeffrey and Sean have conquered many obstacles in their lives and I expect them to do so moving forward,” Noto said. “The world is a better place with them in it.”
Jeffrey’s mother, Kristine Mansfield, said the school had been an important part of her son’s life during the nine years he attended.
“They care about him, they nurture him, they saw his potential for him to be the best he can be,” Mansfield said. “He’s proud of himself, confident and a friend of everybody.”
The LaGrange ceremony featured a year-in-review video, music by the Arlington High School String Quintet and a closing performance of Pharrell Williams’ “Happy” led by music therapist Julia Hughes.
Abilities First, which serves individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, operates schools and programs designed to promote independence, education, and community inclusion.
Comments