Downtown
Tiny tots took their first step on the ladder of education and graduated the pre-school program at the Helen Keller Services for the Blind’s Children’s Learning Center on June 23.
Students included Callaway Gentile, Justin Villafane, Karen Romero, and Dominic Wysokins, to name a few. The terrific tots were all smiles as they donned caps and gowns and received their diplomas to the applause of family members and invited guests.
Callaway has been with the school since he was 9 months old, and though wheelchair-bound, through his years at the school he has become more alert and aware. Parents Chris and Erin Gentile happily cheered as their son graduated the program.
Justin, another grad, has also been at the school since he was 9 months old as well. He uses a cane and has become amazingly active, forming a strong bond with his assistant teacher Sarah Baez, who is legally blind.
The kids moved over their tassels at the National Grid Auditorium where Joseph Bruno, president and chief executive officer of the school, handed out the diplomas. Principal Garth White and Michael Gentile of the Brooklyn Conservatory of Music were on hand to lend their support.
Standing O says, “Well done!”
Helen Keller Services for the Blind [57 Willoughby St. and Lawrence Street in Downtown, (718) 522–2122].
