NBCS Graduates 2019

NBCS Graduates 2019 NBCS Graduates 201

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June 2019. Newark Boys Chorus School graduated 12 eighth grade students during its Commencement Ceremony at Grace Church in Newark. Faculty and trustees led the procession of the Class of 2019 graduates, and graduate Luis Rodriguez gave the welcome address, noting that: “These young men and I have worked hard to get here, and we have had bumps along the way. Now, we are going to put that behind us, because we must stop reflecting on the past and look towards our future.”

Amyr Jaward speaks of the importance of lasting friendships.

Amyr Jaward and James Felton then addressed their class. Speaking to the importance of friendships that he made while at NBCS, Amyr said: “We have learned to eat together, to play together, to sing together, and to work together. These wonderful experiences that I have shared with my 11 brothers, I will carry them with me for the rest of my life.”

James reflected back on his time at NBCS, saying: “I will always look back on my time at NBCS with pride, and will forever have eleven brothers. In the words of our class song, “When the dark comes crashing through, when you need a friend to carry you, when you’re broken on the ground, you will be found.” I promise to find you, and I know each of you will be there for me.”

Valedictorian Elijah Johnson—”We have made memories!”

Class valedictorian, Elijah Johnson proclaimed: “we stand here as brothers, we’ve forgotten our less than perfect starts, and the bond between us, no one else will ever understand that. We have made memories and have lived through experiences so vastly different from every other class at any other school. My charge to you guys is a famous quote from Ralph Walden Emerson, famous lecturer and poet. He said, "Do not follow where the path may lead. Go, instead, where there is no path and leave a trail.”

In his commencement speech, Roger Leon, Superintendent of Newark Public Schools taught the boys a valuable lesson about humility as he detailed how he only received a five dollar bill and a small family dinner after each of his graduations until he received his masters. Superintendent Leon story highlighted the importance family and always setting sights on bigger goals.

The NBCS annual Humanitarian Award presented on behalf of Theresa Monaco, former NBCS teacher went to James Felton. The award recognizes a student who exemplifies excellence in the qualities that are valued at Newark Boys Chorus School in the area of personal development - prepared, attentive, respectful, and interacts well with others.

Social Studies Teacher Andrew Binger stated, “In all my years, I have never felt more connected to any other graduating class. I hope that they remain in touch with the school, one another, (and me), as they move along in their journey.

“Think of us wherever you go!”