It’s that time of year again! Throughout the month of June, ADAPT Community Network’s 11 Children’s Programs held graduations for their students. Whether they were preschoolers moving up to kindergarten or School Age students taking the step into general education, each student was recognized for their hard work and honored with a diploma.  

Friends and family were invited to each graduation, where they were met with elaborate decorations crafted by the students and their dedicated educators. Each school selected a unique theme for their graduation, which ranged from superheroes to under the sea and even a gardening-themed graduation. Staff set up snack tables, cake, gift baskets, and photo booths to make the guests feel welcome. 

The students and educators worked for weeks to learn and practice special singing and dance performances. Parents snapped photos of the adorable performers with their props and costumes.  

Each preschool director addressed the audience, praising the parents for helping their little learners through the first step in their educational journey.  

“It’s not just a graduation, but a journey of incredible courage, growth, and light,” Khadijah Grant, Director of the Brooklyn Children’s Program, said. “Your love has built a foundation that gives your children the courage to keep exploring the world, one small but mighty step at a time.” 

The parents, in turn, expressed their gratitude towards the education staff who guided their children through their preschool years. 

“On behalf of all the parents, I want to express my extreme gratitude,” a parent said at the William O’Conner Midwood School graduation. “Your care made our children succeed and has given them a fun and colorful two years. Their growth is the result of your hard work and dedication.” 

Peter Anzalone, Senior Vice President of Education Program Services, also gave remarks at each graduation. 

“This is one of many bridges that your child will be crossing as they go through their academic career,” he said. “I want to thank the therapists, clinicians, teachers, teacher’s assistants, psychologists, social workers, facilities staff, and administrative staff for all the hard work they put in to get to this point.” 

Finally, students received their diplomas and joined their families to take pictures and celebrate. At the Stillwell Program, there was even a dance party at the end of the graduation for all the parents, kids, and anyone else who came to support our little learners.  

Congratulations to the graduates of: 

Bronx Children’s Program 

Harry H. Gordon School 

Brooklyn School-Age Program 

Brooklyn Children’s Program 

The Greenpoint School 

William O’Conner School (Bay Ridge) 

William O’Conner School (Midwood) 

Manhattan Children’s Program 

Forest Hills West School 

The Clearview School 

Staten Island Children’s Program 

We at ADAPT are honored to be the chosen provider for your children’s education!