New Windsor - Pomp and Circumstance and a lot of excitement filled the air as 25 students from McQuade Children’s Services’ Kaplan School prepared for the School’s Moving Up ceremony. The afternoon program was attended by family members, as well as School and agency staff.
The Moving Up program recognized students moving from elementary school to junior high school and students moving from junior high school to high school. Also participating were students who have completed their McQuade program and will be moving on to their home school, a group home, or another program. Those boys moving on wore green graduation gowns, sporting yellow carnations to celebrate their accomplishment.
After marching down the aisle in front of family, friends, teachers, and staff the students took their place of honor at the front of the room. Each student received a certificate of accomplishment and a dictionary from Kaplan School Director of Education, Patricia McLeod , and Dr. David E. Jacobsen, President and CEO of McQuade Children’s Services.
"It is my distinct honor to welcome our students and guests to the first-ever Moving Up ceremony in the new Kaplan School," said Dr. Jacobsen, donning his Doctoral robe to mark the occasion. "I am proud to celebrate the accomplishments of our students and to recognize the dedication of their teachers and staff who have helped to make it possible," Jacobsen continued.
Dr. Jacobsen also presented two students with special awards in honor of former McQuade Board members. The B. Sears Hunter Award for Excellence, presented to Joseph C., recognized the student for excellence in academics, personal growth, and service to the general good and well-being of the community. Juan G. received the Marcus Gray Award for Character Development which recognizes a student who has displayed the traits and characteristics of trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship. Each student received a savings bond along with the award.
About McQuade Children’s Services
McQuade Children’s Services is an accredited, not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing therapeutic residential care, emergency shelter services, group homes, special education, and community-based prevention programs to special-needs children and their families. Located in the heart of the Hudson Valley, McQuade provides services to more than 3,500 children from 13 New York counties.
"We endeavor to provide youth with the highest quality treatment, counseling, and training; teach basic values, personal development, and good citizenship; and to create and maintain an environment which embodies the message of caring, opportunity, and success. Together we can change lives and shape futures."
