BOCES culinary student earns award

Posted Wednesday, June 15, 2016 2:34 pm

Dilson Santiago Barrera, center, received an award from Barry Tech Principal Laurie Harris, District Superintendent Dr. Robert Dillon and Guidance Counselor Juan Gonzalez.

Courtesy Nassau BOCES

Dilson Santiago Barrera of the Rockville Centre school district was honored recently with the George Farber Outstanding Student Award. He earned the award for his talent, commitment, honesty, diligence, compassion and high moral standards. Dilson received the award during a ceremony at the Nassau BOCES Long Island High School for the Arts in Syosset.

Three years ago, Dilson arrived in the United States from Guatemala. He is currently a full-time student with Nassau BOCES, managing course loads in two separate programs. He attends the English Language Alternative Program (ELAP) and the Culinary Arts Skills Program, and maintains a 90 average in both. He is dedicated to improving his English language skills through ELAP, and enjoys learning new recipes and preparing meals in Culinary Arts. After graduating high school, he plans to attend college and to develop his skills as a chef.

As ELAP Student Ambassador, Dilson helps visiting students to get acclimated by showing them around and explaining expectations. Dilson is a mentor to new students, who learn the ropes by shadowing him their first day. He also serves as a Peacemaker and Peer Mediator for both Culinary Skills and ELAP.

Report an inappropriate comment

HELP SUPPORT LOCAL JOURNALISM

The worldwide pandemic has threatened many of the businesses you rely on every day, but don’t let it take away your source for local news. Now more than ever, we need your help to ensure nothing but the best in hyperlocal community journalism comes straight to you. Consider supporting the Herald with a small donation. It can be a one-time, or a monthly contribution, to help ensure we’re here through this crisis. To donate or for more information, click here.