Five students honored at Rye Lake Lower Campus's AIIM Program Moving Up

There were few if any dry eyes in the house by the end of the AIIM Program Moving Up ceremony at the Decagon on the Rye Lake Lower Campus June 10. 

A touching slideshow, prepared by Assistant Principal Leah Zilich, presented baby and childhood pictures along with more recent shots of campus life perfectly framed up the journey that the five graduates successfully navigated leading up to this day. Then there was Teacher Rhonda Owens reflecting on the impact that each student made on her and her colleagues during their time here.

She recalled Ruairi Hartnett's practical jokes and sense of humor, Aucarvio Moise's great smile and penchant for singing,  Andrew Seemungal's enthusiasm for his peers and for nature walks, Tomas Saavedra's love of music and art, and Sherkera Pierre's  athleticism and room-filling smile. 

"Each of you has left such an indelible spot on my heart," Ms. Owens said. "As you go forward in this journey, know that all of our love and support will be with each one of you."

Ms. Zilich presented each student with their certificate of completion of the program. Principal Julia Dolan expressed appreciation to the family, friends and educators who turned out for the occasion. 

"Thank you everyone for your dedication to these wonderful students," Ms. Dolan said.

Also graduating but not present at the ceremony was Reuben Geller.  Reuben has been a student in the program for two years, though he attended remotely.