Courtney Luciana Photo
Chrstian DeLeon Marrero.
Eighteen students got diplomas Friday at a school designed for kids in danger of not making it that far. And each one had a story.
Riverside Academy first-year Principal Derek Stephenson showcased every student’s story as they absorbed the spotlight while walking the runway to receive their diplomas.
“We’re saving lives. Bottom line,” Stephenson said. “This is the only alternative school in New Haven at this time. It’s needed on so many levels. I explain to students who come here, this is not a consequence, this is another opportunity.”
As Chrstian DeLeon Marrero took the stage, Stephenson acknowledged him as one of the most resilient students who had attended Riverside.
Marrero said he studied a lot to reach the finish line.
“Thank you so much to everybody,” said Marerro. “Thank you for everything, Mr. Stephenson.”
Steve Mikolike with Christian Marrero.
Steve Mikolike has been a teacher of certified support services for special education for over 20 years.
Mikolike said Marrero won an award for resilience because he had some issues commuting but stuck it out.
“That’s my everything right there,” Mikolike said referring to Marrero. “There’s closure today, and it’s a new beginning and reminding the students that this is their journey going forward.”
Oscar Morales Quinones (pictured) said that it was thanks to his mom that he graduated.
“Today means a lot,” said Quinones. “I never had a dad, so my mom was everything for me while I was growing up.”
Quinones plans to take a year off before attending Gateway Community College to study business.
Claudette Robinson-Thorpe, Shy’Kita Corbitt, and Nancy Hill.
Shy’Kita Corbitt said she had faith in herself and held close bonds with both school social workers, Claudette Robinson-Thorpe and Nancy Hill, and school counselor LaKeisha Bittle.
“I knew I was going to make it,” said Corbitt. “I’m one of the best students here.”
Corbitt will be attending Gateway with hopes to transfer to University of New Haven to major in psychology.
LaKeisha Bittle said her Shy’Kita have become so close that they call and text everyday.
“We take an individual approach when we work with our students,” said Bittle. “Whatever support is needed, we give it.”
When the pandemic hit, Hill worked with approximately 30 students, including after hours, to ensure support both personally and socially for the students.
“I did spend a lot of time on the phone just problem solving,” said Hill. “Reassuring the students that we are completely aware of what’s going on in the world and that it is a huge adjustment. We had to make sure to give them what they needed in regards to accessing the necessary technology or internet services in order to succeed.”
Robinson-Thorpe said Riverside is the place for students who don’t work in a traditional high school.
“We have a wonderful principal that supports everyone in the building and the students,” said Robinson-Thorpe. “Regardless of covid affecting the community, the kids rose to the challenge.”
Math teacher and senior advisor Melvin Campbell said the students become a part of his family.
“We talk about anything,” said Campbell. “We talk about life, finances, and how to prepare them for their futures. We talk about how high school isn’t the end of success and their options going forward.”
Principal Stephenson announced the arrival of Edwin Ortiz by listing off his characteristics as Ortiz journeyed around the bend and exited his vehicle, crossing over into the book of graduates.
“Let’s get a good look at this man,” Stephenson said. “Perseverance, self-advocacy, great attendance, and fantastic attitude.”
Ortiz’s mother, Sandra Perez, said she is very proud of her son.
Ortiz said he wants to pursue acting.
Heavan Moseley grabbing her diploma from Principal Derek Stephenson.
“Today means a lot to me. I’m happy I graduated,” said Heaven Moseley. “I’m going to Gateway for 2 years and then two years out of town to study criminal justice.”
Franklin’s graduation cap.
When Mikayla Franklin and her two children walked, the entire staff ran up to admire her determination.
“This is truly a Riverside success story,” Stephenson said while Katy Perry’s “Firework” played to set the tone. “You are determined. You believed in yourself and we believed in you.”
“Today is the start of my new life,” said Franklin. “I had one of my daughters senior year who was born premature, and she was sick. The beginning of that was the hardest part, and raising two daughters wasn’t easy at all.But they’re my motivation.”
Franklin has plans to become a pediatric nurse.
Superintendent of New Haven schools Dr. Iline Tracey (pictured) said she was touched by Franklin’s victory.
“When I saw the determination of that young lady’s face and the whole idea of not letting anything stop her from making progress, I really appreciated that,” said Dr. Tracey “I really appreciate all of the staff members for working with these students. They need us. We need them.”