Students at the Meadowbrook Alternative Program marked their official commencement from the program in front of parents, family and friends on June 23. Marching into the auditorium at the Brookside School to “Pomp and Circumstance,” the students were warmly welcomed by program director Susan Ellinghaus.

“We are here today to celebrate your graduation and to celebrate the next phase on your journey through life,” said safety officer Donald Smith. “I want you to realize that as one door closes, another opens. You should never be afraid to walk through the door. You must walk through with confidence and let the world know that you are here to make a difference. I know all of you will succeed in whatever you attempt to do.”

Additionally, Class of 2008 graduate Raquelle Kabatsky, valedictorian Tiffany Terravecchia and salutatorian Michelle Beery addressed the audience throughout the ceremony. Board of Education President Susan Schwartz presented diplomas to each of the graduates as they crossed the stage.

During the ceremony, several students received special awards. Daniel Healey was awarded the U.S. Army Scholar Athlete Award by Staff Sgt. Eli Henderson. Terravecchia and Beery received the PTA Coordinating Council Award, with Michael Dapolito being acknowledged with the BMUST Scholarship Award. Dapolito also was given $200 from Allstate Insurance, presented by Kabatsky. Terravecchia also received the Bellmore Lion’s Club Award. Beery, Tara Eyring, Daniel Pflaumer and James Seible were all awarded the Meadowbrook Alternative Program Award.

 

Students in the Meadowbrook Alternative Program were able to connect the history they learn in textbooks to real life on June 6 in recognition of D-Day. The MAP students visited several senior citizens who served in the armed forces at the Jewel Quinn Senior Center, who share the building at the Brookside School. The visit was in honor of the 70th anniversary of D-Day and allowed students to thank veterans for their dedication and service.

Two senior citizens – 91 year olds Frank DePergoli and Sam Karp – landed on the beaches at Normandy 10 and 11 days, respectively, after the initial invasion. They, along with several other veterans who served during World War II and the Korean War, shared their firsthand experiences with the students.

“We have to remember why the boys went over there,” said Karp. “It was to protect everybody’s rights. Everyone is a human being and they are entitled to the way they think or what they feel. We went over there to make sure that these rights weren’t taken away from us.”