New Visions 20th anniversary moving up ceremony

The atmosphere at New Visions School of Exploration and Discovery was filled with excitement as the school’s fourth grade moving up ceremony took place. This year’s event was extra special as it commemorated the 20th anniversary of the school’s establishment. Parents, teachers, and students alike gathered to mark this momentous occasion.

Before the ceremony commenced, a heartwarming gesture took place. The graduating fourth-grade students took a final walk through the school’s corridors, which were adorned with younger students applauding and cheering as they passed by. It was a touching display of camaraderie and encouragement, fostering a sense of unity within the school community.

As the ceremony officially began, New Visions School Principal, Jessica Romero, extended a warm welcome to all attendees and addressed the fourth-grade class members.

“Always remember all you have learned as you move on,” Romero said. “Continue to set goals for yourself, work hard and spend time with the ones you love. Continue to visit us and share your stories as you move forward. Congratulations to the Class of 2023.”

The celebration continued with the presentation of various awards, recognizing the outstanding achievements of some exceptional students. New York State Comptroller’s Awards were bestowed upon Cassidy Jean Baptiste, Nora Ochoa, Sophia Turcios, and Emily Lopez-Oloroso, acknowledging their remarkable accomplishments. Furthermore, the New York State Attorney General’s Triple C Award was presented to Kiara Nunez and Analiah Olivo, honoring their outstanding commitment to character, courage, and compassion.

The pinnacle of recognition came in the form of the President’s Gold Award for Outstanding Academic Excellence, which was received by a distinguished group of students. Analiah Olivo, Makeda Benjamin, Kiara Nunez, Cassidy Jean-Baptiste, Christian McDonald, Gustavo Barra, Oliver Martinez, Emily Lopez-Oloroso, Alan Sorto, Mason Blount, Michael Munfakh, Sofia Recinos, and Frailin Estrella were among the recipients of this esteemed award, symbolizing their exceptional dedication to their studies.

One of the most memorable moments of the ceremony was when Student Council President, Sophia Turcios, assisted by Mr. Christopher Lomot, the Assistant Principal of New Visions School, and Superintendent of Schools, Kishore Kuncham, buried a time capsule. The capsule contained various mementos and items representing the year 2023, carefully chosen by the students. Items like an Apple watch, a Chromebook, Legos, Pop Its, and Slime were sealed within the capsule, destined to be unveiled and cherished in the year 2043.The moving up ceremony ended with the fourth-grade class putting on a performance of “Try Everything” by Shakira, leaving everyone in attendance inspired and uplifted.