On Thursday, May 21, members of the HFM BOCES Adult Literacy and Corrections Education department gathered at the Montgomery County Correctional Facility to recognize an important achievement.
Dremikal “Dre” Baker was honored during a small ceremony for earning his GED through the corrections education program offered at Montgomery Academy. The program, run in partnership between HFM BOCES and the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, gives individuals the opportunity to continue their education while incarcerated.
According to Christine Carioto, Administrative Coordinator of the HFM BOCES Adult Literacy and Corrections Education program, Baker’s achievement is especially significant.
“Dre is the first person to complete the GED program at Montgomery Academy in six years, and while classes are offered regularly, many individuals are not housed at the facility long enough to meet all the requirements needed to earn their GED,” Carioto said. “He made the most of his time, committed to the work, and followed through on his goal.”
Reflecting on the milestone, Baker said he’s proud of what he accomplished.
“It feels great! Personally, it means that I have reached another goal for myself.”
He said his motivation was simple.
“To make my mother proud,” he said.
Like many students, Baker faced challenges along the way. Staying disciplined wasn’t always easy, but he found ways to stay on track.
“I overcame challenges by setting up a schedule for myself and working my way through the hard times.”
He also credited the Montgomery Academy program and his teacher, Maria Mancini, for helping him succeed.
“My teacher, Maria, gave me the tools and support I needed to achieve my goal of getting my GED,” he said. “Without her, I wouldn’t have achieved my goal.”
Through the process, Baker said he gained confidence in himself and what he can accomplish.
“I learned that I can do anything I set my mind to,” he said.
Earning his GED has also changed how he views what comes next.
“It has opened more doors for me. Now I can attend college and work on obtaining my business degree.”
Speaking during the ceremony, Manicini said she’s seen Baker’s growth over the past several months and is confident in what’s ahead for him.
“This achievement has opened doors for you,” Mancini said. “While some choices in your past may have led you here, they do not define who you are or what your future will become. You now have the opportunity to pursue the goals we’ve talked about over the past six months, and I believe you are capable of achieving them.”
She added, “I’m proud of you, and I look forward to seeing all the great things your future holds.”
The recognition ceremony was attended by Montgomery County Executive Pete Vroman, Sheriff Jeffery T. Smith, Undersheriff Carl Rust, Jail Administrator Robert Barbuti, Amsterdam Town Justice Thomas Nethaway, Baker’s uncle, HFM BOCES Assistant Superintendent for Educational Services Jay DeTraglia, HFM BOCES staff members, and correctional facility staff.
Baker’s achievement highlights both his hard work and the importance of programs that give people a chance to keep moving forward.
