Despite the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the educational sector around the world, the joy and feeling of accomplishment was highly celebrated at the graduation ceremony for the Western Connecticut Regional Adult and Continuing Education (WERACE) students, held on June16 at Danbury High School.

The event started with opening remarks by Terence Cunningham, WERACE Regional Director, welcoming students, family, and friends to the 2021 graduation ceremony.

"Graduations are always exciting and fulfilling events. Due to all your hard work and dedication, you have now completed your journey,” said Cunningham. “Despite a worldwide pandemic, virtual learning, and many other challenges, you succeeded. I want to take this opportunity to congratulate you on a job well done.”

Danbury Mayor Joseph Cavo greeted all attendees, but especially singled out the graduates, saluting them for their perseverance in earning their high school diploma: “Adult learners have to deal with jobs, families, and life, all while getting the coveted diploma. They may have had struggles, but they conquered all the challenges.” 

According to Cecilia Veiga, WERACE Adult ESL program coordinator, student Anthony Rongetti received the 2021 CAACE Learner of the Year Kristin Berenson Memorial Scholarship, a statewide award. 

Also recognized as Outstanding Students were Janeth Cabrera, Kiley McKale, Neo Paoli, Alizardo Peralta, Paola Remache, Jennifer Rios, and Anthony Rongetti.

Graduate student Neo Paoli addressed the class, highlighting that “not even a pandemic was able to stop us.” 

Prior to becoming a school administrator, Director Cunningham worked for several years as a professional school counselor.  He shared: “Oftentimes, I would speak to students about school, work, their personal lives, and careers. My main message was always the same. No matter what obstacles come your way, stay focused on the goal at hand and graduate!!!" 

As far as the future of WERACE, Cunningham stated that their main priority is to make sure staff and students remain safe: “We will follow the guidance of our school district leadership as we move towards planning for next year.” 

About WERACE

WERACE (Western Connecticut Regional Adult and Continuing Education) is a regional program that provides FREE State mandated Adult Education services to adults 17 years of age and older, including high school completion, GED preparation, ESL instruction and citizenship courses. They serve adults who live in the towns of Bethel, Brookfield, Danbury, Easton, New Fairfield, Newtown, Redding, and Ridgefield. WERACE programs address basic literacy needs and teach the necessary skills to transition to higher education, training, or employment. The mission of WERACE is to promote learning as a lifelong process striving to provide learners with the necessary tools to be successful citizens, workers, family members, and parents in today's world. 

For more information visit https://sites.google.com/a/danbury.k12.ct.us/werace.