Valhalla Center salutes four graduates for their accomplishments, perseverance

Families, longtime staff embrace students' success on their special day

Families, friends, educators and administrators packed the room at Valhalla Center on June 12 as four graduates were celebrated for the hard work, vibrant spirit and unique contributions that marked their time at Southern Westchester BOCES.

Patrick Gettler, Tyler McGhee, Noel Peña and Alijah Valenzuela marched in wearing their commencement caps and gowns proudly, nodding to loved ones as they took their seats up front for the moving ceremony.

Principal Dinzey thanked families for their contributions to the graduates’ success,

“Truly your strength, love and commitment has brought us to this moment,” Ms. Dinzey said. “We thank you for the hours, and we know there are many, the patience and the belief you place in our graduates.”

Besides teachers, administrators, the Facilities team, and the districts that entrust students to these programs, Ms. Dinzey also thanked the leadership and teachers on the Career Services campus where students study a variety of CTE subjects.

All four graduates were named recipients of the Bob Newman Award, a scholarship award named for a former student. The newly established Valhalla Center Choir performed Lean On Me under the direction of music teacher Andrew Ruoti, who played along on guitar.

As the graduates were presented their certificates, teachers reflected on each one.

Teacher Julie Crosier recalled the directions Tyler learned to follow, including closing the classroom door. “Today you have to keep the door open to walk through it to see the next chapters of your life,” Ms. Crosier said.

Teacher Alison Waskiewics called Patrick a bright and caring student. He attended the Office Skills program on the CTE campus, where he enjoyed working as a classroom receptionist. “Patrick, you will go far in the world,” Ms. Waskiewicz said.

Teacher Colleen Walsh called Alijah a great kid who worked hard and brightened every room he entered. “He truly cares about the people around him,” Ms. Walsh said. “Throughout this year, Alijah has taught us what it means to persevere and to grow.”

Ms. Crosier also recalled 12 years of teaching and learning with Noel, who studied auto body repair on the Career Services campus. “You have so much waiting for you out there,” Ms. Crosier said. “As we discussed, there are always possibilities. We just have to be brave enough to experience them.”

Ms. Dinzey told the graduates this was their day. Their journeys may have been filled with challenges and growth, but there were also beautiful triumphs.

“We are so incredibly proud of each and every one of you,” she said. “These are not just graduates, they are really, truly bright stars, each with a powerful story and a beautiful future.”