On the 14th of June, The Benedictine School held its annual graduation ceremony at its campus in Ridgely to celebrate the accomplishments of 11 students. The ceremony recognized the individual achievements of each graduate with a special award presentation.
Family, friends and staff in attendance enjoyed an evening of hospitality as the culminating event of the school year. The ceremony included a live performance of the national anthem sung by staff member Yvonne Duckery, vocalist, and Devin Brown, keyboardist. A volunteer group of staff also performed a sign language routine. Special guest, ‘Elsa’ from the Disney movie Frozen, surprised graduates at the end of the ceremony and posed for pictures.
Education Director Julie Hickey recognized school teacher Lorraine Slama for recently earning the title of ‘Educator of the Year’ by the National Commission for the Accreditation of Special Education Services. Benedictine parent, Kathy Marinucci of Dominic’s Farm, was recognized with The Community Award for sharing her talents and farm resources with school students.
Graduates from The Benedictine School were awarded a High School Certificate of Program Completion and will move on to adult life in their home communities. We wish them the best of luck.
Providing opportunities to live meaningful, productive lives in communities of choice, Benedictine helps children and adults with developmental disabilities reach their greatest potential without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, or age.
Craig Fuller says
Congratulations to the graduates and their families in the Class of 2018!
Two years ago, I had the good fortune to attend the graduation ceremonies at The Benedictine School for the son of close friends who was graduating. While I have had enjoyed attending other graduations and even spoken on occasion, nothing I’ve witnessed compares to the sheer joy of these young people and their families at The Benedictine School. It is such a special occasion for young people with special needs. It’s a day that allows one and all to realize that all the work and effort are worth it for this joyous moment. The whole experience feels like it happened yesterday and it reminds me what a very special place The Benedictine School is for very special families.
Wonderful to see the story about this year’s graduation in The Spy! Thanks!!