On Thursday, June 8th, the Paul D. Schreiber High School proudly hosted its first-ever Twilight Rising Ceremony, a momentous event that aimed to recognize and pay tribute to the remarkable achievements of Schreiber’s Nassau BOCES Twilight students throughout the academic year. The ceremony celebrated all forty students who participated in the program, with a special focus on the outstanding accomplishments of the eleven students who will receive their high school diploma at Schreiber’s commencement exercises on June 22nd.
The Twilight Program, a partnership between Port Washington and Nassau BOCES, is a late-afternoon school initiative specifically designed for students who need support in addition to or outside of the traditional school setting. With a strong emphasis on personalized instruction and flexible scheduling, the program successfully provided tailored support to meet the needs of its students. This year marked the program's inception, and we are proud to announce that it has been an unequivocal success. Starting with only five students in October, the program expanded to accommodate a total of forty students by June.
Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Michael Hynes noted, “This initiative exemplifies our commitment to providing inclusive and accessible education opportunities for all students. Witnessing the growth and achievements of the students involved has been truly inspiring. The program serves as a shining example of our dedication to meeting the unique needs of every learner in our district. I applaud the efforts of Twilight’s Coordinator Lawrence Schultz, the dedicated faculty, and the supportive administrators who have contributed to the program's success. Together, we will continue to expand and enhance educational opportunities, ensuring that every student has the chance to thrive and succeed.”
Reflecting on the program's growth and accomplishments, Lawrence Schultz, the Twilight Program Coordinator, expressed his pride and enthusiasm for the future of the Twilight Program. "I know I speak for all of my incredible colleagues and supportive administrators when I say that I am eagerly looking forward to watching this program continue to grow and serve these at-risk students," said Schultz. "The teamwork and collegiality that was displayed in making this program a success was truly remarkable to witness. I thank you all."
The Twilight Rising Ceremony served as a testament to the dedication and perseverance exhibited by the Twilight Program's students and faculty. By honoring their accomplishments, the event underscored the importance of providing opportunities for academic success to students who might face challenges in accessing their education.
As the inaugural Twilight Rising Ceremony drew to a close, attendees were left with a sense of pride and admiration for the achievements of the Twilight Program students. The Port Washington School District looks forward to the ongoing growth and success of the program, as it continues to make a positive impact on the lives of students in our community.