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Partly Cloudy Meadowbrook Alternative Program sends off 20 grads
Valedictorian thanks teachers for pushing him outside comfort zone
The Meadowbrook Alternative Program in the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District graduated 20 students from its senior class on June 19.
During his commencement speech valedictorian Derek Baumann addressed several teachers, including science teacher, Zachary Gosse. After learning of a mutual admiration for shoes, Gosse suggested Baumann organize a shoe drive as part of his senior project.
“You allowed me to pursue something I was passionate about and make it a huge success,” Baumann said.
Baumann also thanked teacher Tiffany Rzempoluch for “pushing him outside of his comfort zone” during a class trip.
“I ended up being better than I thought I was,” he said.
During her faculty address, teacher Geisha Kwiatkowski spoke of the next chapter in students’ lives.
“Getting started is often the hardest part, but I have seen you all overcome adversity before.”
“If you face your challenges head on, you can make your dreams come true,” added Principal Susan Ellinghaus.
