150 Pupi ls Receive BOCES GED

One hundred fifty adults from 18 school districts throughout the region have celebrated the completion of their GED (General Education Diploma) from Putnam-Northern Westchester BOCES.

Last week's commencement on the BOCES Yorktown campus also recognized the efforts of 77 other students who received special kudos for their work.

BOCES Superintendent Dr. James Langlois commended the students for their "tremendous accomplishments. We laud your courage and strength to return to school as an adult and complete your education. We are proud to be a part of this impressive process."

Mariana Leon of Ossining shared her story of coming to the U.S. from her native Ecuador: "Learning English wasn't easy, but it has been well worth the effort."

Another graduate, Carlos Figueiredo of Continental Village, praised the support he received from members of the BOCES staff: "Finishing my education has been my dream that came true."

GED alumni Antonio Paone of Mahopac is employed at BOCES as a bursar. Paone told the graduates, "BOCES is the best place to be because everyone who walks through the door can realize their dreams."

BOCES provides English as a Second Language, GED services, and adult education classes to more than 2,000 residents of Putnam and northern Westchester each year.

-Eric Gross