Diploma recipients, English language learners and new Americans honored at Adult Ed recognition

Moving ceremony held for the first time at Sleepy Hollow High School

Language is about more than words but about connections, understanding, and feeling seen, Dr. Raymond Sanchez told hundreds of graduates of Southern Westchester BOCES adult education programs.

The keynote speaker at the Student Recognition Ceremony held June 18 at Sleepy Hollow High School, Dr. Sanchez addressed students from English as a Second Language and High School Equivalency and Citizenship exam preparation programs. 

The Tarrytown superintendent reflected on his Cuban roots and his roots in this community, growing up in a Spanish-speaking home and feeling awkward about his developing English language skills. He preferred to blend in than to stand out, he said, but his family taught him better.

“They knew that language was more than a way to communicate,” he said. “It was a bridge - un puente - a bridge between generations, between cultures and between communities.”

As an educator, he said, he has seen how language opens doors, providing access to different perspectives and new opportunities and relationships. 

“It is not just where you come from but where you are going,” he said. “I want you to see language as a tool, a key, a way to see the world a little differently and maybe even a little better.”

The moving ceremony, held for the first time at Sleepy Hollow, brought together students and family members of all ages. They were joined by SWBOCES teachers, staff and administrators, who handed out certificates and celebrated students’ unique accomplishments. View more photos from the Recognition Ceremony here.

Among those honored were 68 new American citizens, 50 High School Equivalency diploma recipients and hundreds of ESL program participants. 

District Superintendent Dr. Harold Coles, Deputy Superintendent/COO Dr. Brendan Lyons, Assistant Superintendent James Gratto and Board of Education member Sheryl Brady attended the event, which was led by Adult Literacy Program Supervisor Maria Guerrero.

Each program division was represented by a student speaker whose personal stories moved the audience and drew warm applause. 

Sarai Merino, a 38-year-old mother of five who completed the HSE program, reflected on her journey from Puebla, Mexico, in 2003. The language barrier was among many difficulties she faced.

“Then one day that was like any other day turned into the best day of my life,” she said.

She went to the local library and was referred to SWBOCES. Teacher Jose Bohorquez - “the best teacher in the world,” she said - gave her hope that she could do the impossible and earn her GED. Now she dreams of college and providing an example that with discipline and perseverance, anything is possible.

“BOCES, thank you for providing educational programs for adults,” Ms. Merino said. “Thank you, Mr. Bohorquez, for believing in me even when I didn’t.”

Newly sworn-in American citizen Margarita Rodriguez, arrived in the U.S. from Mexico in 2017. A mother of four and a grandmother of eight, she described how SWBOCES programs made the difference for her. 

“The U.S. is now my home,” she said. “The American Dream is about the ability to follow my dreams.”

She implored her fellow graduates to cherish their citizenship and to honor the sacrifices they made to get to this day by embracing the opportunities this country affords. 

Julia Olivera Chura, another HSE student, challenged her own high school-aged daughter to see who would get their diploma first. She credited her success to teachers who were always encouraging.

“If you have a chance, take it now,” she said. “This is your time. This is your future. Show your kids that there is no limit.”