The HFM BOCES Adirondack Academy alternative high school program recently celebrated the hard work, resilience and dedication of 18 students who successfully completed the program and will receive their diplomas from their home school districts.
The ceremony was held Thursday, June 24 at SUNY Fulton-Montgomery Community College’s Rao Theater, where family, friends, teachers and administrators gathered to recognize the graduates’ accomplishments.
Adirondack Academy Principal Michael Schell praised the Class of 2026 for their perseverance, telling them their ability to push through challenges will matter most moving forward.
Schell said each student arrived at graduation after facing their own struggles and setbacks, but shared a determination to keep going.
“Each student on this stage has had the option to give up, but kept going,” Schell said. “Perseverance is the single most important skill that you can take from your time at Adirondack Academy.”
He closed by encouraging students to look ahead and make the most of what comes next.
“To the class of 2026: good luck, work hard, and go out and make the best possible future for yourselves,” he said.
Graduates also heard from classmate Mikey Blowers, who spoke about personal challenges he faced during high school, including the loss of a close friend. He encouraged his peers to keep moving forward during difficult times.
“No matter how hard things can get, try your hardest to block it out and focus on the greater in life,” he said.
One of the most memorable moments of the ceremony came from retiring teacher Susan Peters, who is stepping away after 34 years in education. Peters spoke to the class about growth, reminding them that setbacks do not define who they are.
“You are not permanently defined by one bad year, one mistake, one version of yourself, or one opinion someone had about you,” she said.
At the conclusion of her remarks, Peters presented each graduate with a small mirror, encouraging them to use it as a reminder during difficult moments that they still have a say in who they become.
The ceremony also included remarks from graduate Sage Smith, who thanked teachers and staff for their support and guidance, as well as Adirondack Academy alumnus Christopher Rumrill. Social studies teacher Thomas Halloran also recited a poem he composed for the occasion.
Students recognized at the ceremony included Joe Adelman, Brynlee Bell, Mikey Blowers, Jason Devito, Peyton Frere, Daniel Gonzalez, Adriana Gotobed, Alyssa Hazzard, Taylor Knoblauch, Elliot Malik, Reece McKnabb, Heath Port, Carlos Reyes, Miracle Rodriguez, Sage Smith, Logan Sweet, Nicholas Waldvogel and Ajia Zennaiter.
