Class from the Past

He is the youngest past student I interviewed, being just a junior. Navigating through education has been challenging for Gaven as the traditional education system did not interest him. Upon joining a BOCES program, he discovered his passion for construction. Gaven is a perfect example of how the conventional educational system does not suit everyone. College and career readiness programs are not for everyone, but offering students the opportunity to explore different paths is crucial. Gaven exemplifies this alternative path.

Gaven comes from a unique family background marked by both support and tragedy. One of his older brothers died from a drug overdose, and his grandfather, Tony Salerno, was a notorious mob boss. Despite these challenges, Gaven has received tremendous support from his mother and father, who have encouraged him to pursue his passion.

Produced by Scott Stiverson, Jennifer Hammoud, and Matty Rosenberg. Edited by Scott Stiverson.

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Around 2014, this young lady traveled from Norway to New York. Her mother was completing part of her doctorate at Bard College, while her father took time away from his work as an archeologist. During the five months they spent in our country, she became a member of my class, and her family grew to feel like distant relatives.

In just five months, I came to know a charismatic and funny young lady who loved to perform. Her talent seemed limitless. Upon returning to Norway, she continued her education at a Waldorf School in Trondheim, embarking on a unique educational journey.

Now, she is finishing her last year of high school and plans to travel around Europe. Next year, she will attend a performing arts school for one year, after which her journey will lead her wherever her passions take her.

Produced by Scott Stiverson, Jennifer Hammoud, and Matty Rosenberg. Edited by Scott Stiverson.

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Dr. Sonja Smith has had an impressive journey since her days at Owens Road Elementary in Prince George's County, Maryland. After excelling through her early education, she pursued higher education passionately. Her academic journey led her to major in Psychology and obtain a master's degree in human service counseling from Bowie State University.

Committed to making a difference, Dr. Smith entered the education field through a fellowship with the Washington DC School district. Over the course of 10 years, she dedicated herself to teaching and furthered her education by earning a Ph.D. in E-Learning.

Returning to her roots, Dr. Smith now teaches in the county where she grew up. In addition to her professional accomplishments, she is a devoted mother to a 2-year-old son and has been married for 7 years to a K-9 police officer. Her dedication to education and her community makes her an inspiring figure, continually impacting the lives of children in meaningful ways.

Produced by Scott Stiverson, Jennifer Hammoud, and Matty Rosenberg. Edited by Scott Stiverson.

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It's inspiring to hear about Nick Martin's journey and the positive impact he's had on others. Transitioning from aspirations of becoming a forensic scientist to working as a probation officer shows his resilience and adaptability. His background in criminal justice and his dedication to helping others navigate the legal system is commendable. It’s clear that his positive attitude and caring nature have been significant assets in his career and personal life.

His work as a probation officer involves guiding individuals who have received probation, helping them to make positive changes in their lives. By focusing on the effort and commitment of those he helps, Nick emphasizes personal responsibility and growth. His story is a testament to how a positive mindset and a dedication to helping others can lead to fulfilling and impactful work.

Nick is married to an incredible young lady who is a physical therapist in the Germantown School District. They are parents to a young daughter, with another child on the way. Before getting married, Nick played baseball at Columbia Greene Community College and then continued his education at West Virginia University.

https://ulstercountyny.gov/mental-health

Produced by Scott Stiverson, Jennifer Hammoud, and Matty Rosenberg. Edited by Scott Stiverson.

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It's truly inspiring to hear about the journey of this remarkable young woman. Her evolution from a curious student to a passionate advocate for women's rights and medical equality demonstrates both her personal growth and her commitment to making a positive impact on the world around her.

Starting from her formative years, where she developed a love for science, to her experiences at the University of Michigan where she became engaged with the women's rights movement, each step has shaped her into the advocate she is today. Her decision to pursue a career in medicine, particularly in obstetrics and gynecology, reflects her dedication to addressing the healthcare disparities faced by women and individuals in lower-income communities.

By working as a medical assistant at the University of Chicago's Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic, she is not only gaining valuable experience but also actively contributing to the well-being of patients in need. With her passion for feminism and women's rights as her driving force, there's no doubt that she will continue to make meaningful contributions to the field of medicine and to society as a whole.

Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for individuals to create positive change in their communities, and I have no doubt that she will continue to inspire others with her compassion, determination, and commitment to justice

Produced by Scott Stiverson, Jennifer Hammoud, and Matty Rosenberg. Edited by Scott Stiverson.

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Carly Newman's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion. From her roots in Rhinebeck to her current life in New York, she's navigated the twists and turns of the acting world with unwavering determination and a positive mindset.

Her decision to specialize in combat acting demonstrates both her versatility and her commitment to honing her craft. By obtaining certification in five combat fighting weapons and gaining experience at events like the Renaissance Fair and theme parks, Carly has not only expanded her skill set but also embraced opportunities to embody different characters and engage with diverse audiences.

In her role as a role model, Carly exemplifies the importance of staying true to one's dreams despite setbacks and obstacles. Her journey along the "yellow brick road" serves as inspiration for others striving to pursue their passions in the face of challenges.

As Carly continues her journey alongside her partner in New York, her story serves as a reminder that with dedication and perseverance, anyone can carve out their own path to success in the ever-evolving landscape of the entertainment industry.

Produced by Scott Stiverson, Jennifer Hammoud, and Matty Rosenberg. Edited by Scott Stiverson.

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Keenan Farrell's journey is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the capacity for personal transformation. Despite facing significant challenges and struggles with substance abuse from a young age, he ultimately found the strength and support necessary to turn his life around.

Recognizing the destructive path he was on, Keenan made the courageous decision to break free from addiction and pursue a more positive and fulfilling life. Starting his own contracting business marked a significant milestone in his journey towards self-reliance and stability. The love and support of his partner and the joy of becoming a father further motivated him to stay committed to his newfound path.

Keenan's experiences have equipped him with a unique perspective and empathy, allowing him to connect with and support others who may be facing similar challenges. By sharing his story and offering guidance and encouragement to younger individuals navigating difficult circumstances, he is actively working to make a positive impact in his community.

His journey serves as an inspiration to others, demonstrating that with determination, support, and a willingness to change, it is possible to overcome adversity and create a brighter future. Keenan Farrell's transformation from a troubled youth to a successful entrepreneur and role model exemplifies the power of resilience and the potential for growth and redemption in every individual.

https://www.farrellcontractinginc.com/

Produced by Scott Stiverson, Jennifer Hammoud, and Matty Rosenberg. Edited by Scott Stiverson.

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Reed Fox's journey from being cut from a Division 1 soccer team to becoming a catalyst for change in communities both domestically and internationally is truly inspirational. His resilience and passion for soccer have transformed setbacks into opportunities to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others.

By leveraging his love for the sport, Reed has been able to transcend borders and socioeconomic barriers, bringing the joy and camaraderie of soccer to those who may not have had access to it otherwise. His work in Tanzania, where he helped establish numerous soccer teams and facilities, demonstrates his commitment to empowering individuals and fostering community development.

Moreover, Reed's efforts with Street Soccer USA highlight his dedication to addressing homelessness and social inequality within his own country. By utilizing soccer as a tool for empowerment and social integration, he has provided individuals facing adversity with a sense of purpose, belonging, and hope.

Reed Fox exemplifies the transformative power of sports and serves as a beacon of positivity and compassion in a world that often faces significant challenges. His story is a testament to the fact that even in the face of setbacks, individuals have the capacity to make a profound difference in the lives of others through perseverance, empathy, and dedication to a greater cause.

Produced by Scott Stiverson, Jennifer Hammoud, and Matty Rosenberg. Edited by Scott Stiverson.

http://scmwanza.org/

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Alleigh Szabo's journey from her early struggles with anxiety to her current trajectory toward earning a Ph.D. in Social Emotional Learning is truly inspiring. Despite facing internal battles and the pressure to conform to others' expectations during her younger years, she eventually found her authentic self and embraced her worth.

The transformation Alleigh underwent in high school, where she found friends who accepted her for who she truly was, marked a turning point in her life. It's evident that her college experience played a pivotal role, igniting her passion for research and driving her toward her current path in Social Emotional Learning.

Her commitment to using her past experiences, including the loss of a friend, to make a positive impact on others is commendable. By pursuing a Ph.D. and dedicating herself to educating others about the importance of SEL, Alleigh is not only advocating for change but also striving to implement it by influencing policies.

Alleigh Szabo is undoubtedly a shining star, and her story serves as a reminder of the resilience and determination that can lead to meaningful contributions to society. She is a person whose voice deserves to be heard, and her efforts in promoting social emotional learning will undoubtedly make a significant difference in the lives of many.

Produced by Scott Stiverson, Jennifer Hammoud, and Matty Rosenberg. Edited by Scott Stiverson.

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Delilah Tumolo has had quite the journey since her time in fifth grade! From facing social challenges in middle school to building strong bonds in high school, she has grown into a resilient and inspiring individual. Her experiences with family support, soccer, and music have undoubtedly shaped her into the person she is today.

Delilah has become an inspiration for younger individuals, showing them that they can overcome obstacles and thrive. And it's remarkable to see how she has made such a positive impact, even sparking the creation of a podcast.

Delilah's story serves as a reminder of the power of perseverance, resilience, and the support of loved ones in navigating the journey from adolescence to adulthood.

Produced by Scott Stiverson, Jennifer Hammoud, and Matty Rosenberg. Edited by Scott Stiverson.

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