Peabody P.R.E.P. Graduation: A Celebration of Pioneering Spirit in Education

In an engaging and groundbreaking ceremony, Peabody P.R.E.P. celebrated its second-ever graduation, honoring 11 remarkable seniors who paved their own path in education. The Peabody Personalized Remote Education Program emerged during the challenging COVID-19 pandemic, catering to students from Peabody who sought the flexibility of virtual learning or faced obstacles in traditional classroom settings. Among the graduates, eight received their diplomas during a memorable event held at Peabody's Black Box Theater.

The ceremony commenced with an inspiring address from Executive Director Chris Lord, who commended the program's adaptability and the opportunities it provided to students and their families. Highlighting the program's non-traditional format, Lord emphasized how some students were able to earn more credits than their peers, setting a promising trajectory for their academic journey. Mayor Edward A. Bettencourt Jr., a staunch supporter of the program, expressed his gratitude to the students, faculty, and staff for their dedication, acknowledging the positive impact Peabody P.R.E.P. has had on their lives.

State Representative Tom Walsh praised the graduates for their courageous departure from the conventional educational path and encouraged them to become catalysts for positive change in the world. Superintendent of Schools Josh Vadala, drawing upon his own immigrant background, emphasized the importance of education in finding happiness and success. He inspired the students to cherish their unique paths and pursue their passions with dedication.

Valedictorian Danial Mirza, who received a well-deserved round of applause, shared his plans to attend the University of Massachusetts Amherst for engineering. Mirza celebrated the diverse choices made by his classmates, recognizing that higher education may not be the right path for everyone. He urged his peers to take pride in their endeavors, assuring them of their ability to achieve great things in life.

Peabody P.R.E.P., one of just seven fully-virtual schools in the state, stands out for its distinctive approach to education. The ceremony included a virtual keynote speech by Carl Tillona, head of the Pittsfield Public Virtual Academy, who celebrated the students' pioneering spirit and the historical significance of their commitment to virtual education.

After the inspiring speeches, each graduate had the opportunity to share their thoughts. Tatyana Leboeuf highlighted the importance of accessibility services provided by the school, aiding her in overcoming communication barriers. Narayana Sanchez expressed gratitude towards the teachers and staff for their unwavering support, while Michaely Teles took a moment to thank God for their accomplishments.

The ceremony continued with awards presented by Chris Lord. Seals of biliteracy were awarded to Narayana Sanchez and Michaely Teles, recognizing their linguistic achievements. Additionally, Tatyana Leboeuf, Michaely Teles, and Nicolas Silva received special coins minted in their birth years, a testament to their outstanding contributions. Nicolas Silva earned particular recognition for his remarkable 152.5 credits, surpassing all others in the class.

In his closing remarks, Chris Lord expressed his pride in being at the forefront of the educational evolution embodied by Peabody P.R.E.P., envisioning a promising future for education. The graduation ceremony left a lasting impression, symbolizing the spirit of innovation and determination exhibited by the graduates, as they embark on their individual journeys towards success and fulfillment.