EEUU: Diploma brings hope for future for Century High School students

América del Norte/EEUU/Junio 2016/Autor: jon pompia  / Fuente: chieftain.com

Resumen:  Mientras el alojamiento de alambre forrado sirve como un recordatorio de ambos, el pasado y el presente, este día era todo acerca de la promesa del futuro. Veintisiete jóvenes fueron presentados este viernes con diplomas de la preparatoria Century, Department of Corrections Youthful Offender System llevó a cabo la ceremonia de graduación en su décimo sexto año.

While the razor wire-lined enclosure serves as a stark reminder of both the past and present, this day was all about the promise of the future.

Twenty-seven young men were presented with Century High School diplomas Friday as the Department of Corrections Youthful Offender System hosted its commencement ceremony for the 16th year.

Century High School, located on the YOS grounds, is operated under the auspices of Pueblo City Schools (D60) with a state staff of more than 20.

“This is a very major accomplishment in the lives of these young men,” Principal Jeff Comfort reminded those in attendance. “One that many thought would never happen.”

To the processional “Pomp and Circumstance,” the black-gowned graduates flashed proud, beaming smiles as they entered the courtyard, which echoed with the continual applause and cheers from family members and supporters.

The ceremony was ushered in by a heartfelt rendition of the national anthem by youthful offender Denzel Fisher, who accompanied himself on acoustic guitar.

And while a host of officials and even a graduate spoke, the message remained consistent: Banish the past and embrace the new opportunities that come with earning a high school diploma.

“You did it,” said Mike Romero, a former YOS warden. “You can do anything you set your mind to. This is an opportunity for a second chance; go out and make the most of it.”

In her address, Frances Falk, deputy director of prisons/YOS appointing authority, compared life to a rafting excursion.

“I like to think of this journey as a winding river and you are the captain of your raft,” Falk said. And while each graduate must establish a mission and vision, “You are not alone on this journey: Community stakeholders and partners are the raft, the school staff the oars and your family and loved ones your life jacket.”

While now director of prisons, Steve Hager served as YOS warden when many of the graduates started their educational odyssey.

“Back then, all I heard was ‘I don’t care . . . it doesn’t matter. I don’t care . . . it doesn’t matter.’

“Now, three years later, I’m glad to see you do care because it does matter. Please remember: Your past does not have to define your future. Use today as a steppingstone.”

Jose Tovar-Jimenez, a member of the Class of 2016, articulately traced his own journey from failures in traditional school to incarceration to the precipice of a whole new beginning.

“Even though we have struggles, anyone who puts their mind to it can succeed,” Tovar-Jimenez told his fellow scholars. “We must overcome struggles and show everyone it can be done. Our opportunities are endless if we put our minds to it.”

After the class was presented to D60 board member Barb Clementi for the awarding of diplomas, social studies teacher Dolores Ballejo offered a final word before the tassels were turned.

“A new day is beginning for you. Be ready to move ahead on the road to success and never give up on your dreams.”

Fuente de la noticia: http://www.chieftain.com/news/education/4810361-120/jackson-jose-century-fuentes

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