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<p><span style="color: rgb(15, 17, 17);">As summer rolls in and the sun beckons, it's time to prepare for those blissful days at the beach. Whether you're a seasoned beachgoer or a newbie, having the right gear can make all the difference between a good day and a great one. We've rounded up the must-have beach essentials that will ensure you're ready for whatever the sun, sand, and waves throw your way.</span></p><p><br></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(15, 17, 17);">1. </strong><a href="https://amzn.to/3xjIpwS" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);"><strong>BLINGSTING First Aid Kit</strong></a><span style="color: rgb(15, 17, 17);"> Emergencies at the beach are rare but being prepared is essential. The BLINGSTING First Aid Kit is your compact companion packed with 75 essential supplies. From bandages to antiseptic wipes, this stylish gold kit fits easily in any bag or car, ensuring you're always ready to handle unexpected bumps or scrapes.</span></p><p><br></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(15, 17, 17);">2. </strong><a href="https://amzn.to/3xqPKe2" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);"><strong>AMMSUN Beach Cabana with Fringe</strong></a><span style="color: rgb(15, 17, 17);"> For those seeking shade in style, the AMMSUN Beach Cabana is a game-changer. Its romantic Boho design with tassels not only adds aesthetic charm but also offers UPF 50+ UV protection and is waterproof. Supported by sturdy steel ribs and featuring deluxe sand pockets, this 6'x6' cabana ensures a stable haven on windy beach days.</span></p><p><br></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(15, 17, 17);">3. </strong><a href="https://amzn.to/4ctRZMv" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);"><strong>Collapsible Folding Wagon</strong></a><span style="color: rgb(15, 17, 17);"> Carrying beach gear just got easier with the Collapsible Folding Wagon. Built with a robust steel frame and durable oxford fabric, this wagon can haul up to 220 pounds of towels, coolers, and more. Its big wheels glide effortlessly over sand, making it a beach essential for families and solo beach lovers alike.</span></p><p><br></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(15, 17, 17);">4. </strong><a href="https://amzn.to/3zfagik" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);"><strong>Inflatable Pool Tubes</strong></a><span style="color: rgb(15, 17, 17);"> Bring fun to the waves with the 39" Inflatable Pool Tubes. Designed for both adults and kids, these tubes come in eye-catching yellow and pink with handles for easy gripping. They're perfect for lounging in the water or riding gentle waves, adding an element of playful relaxation to your beach day.</span></p><p><br></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(15, 17, 17);">5. </strong><a href="https://amzn.to/45EGYFN" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);"><strong>Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouch</strong></a><span style="color: rgb(15, 17, 17);"> Protect your technology with the Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouch. Certified IPX8 waterproof, it safeguards your phone against water, sand, and dust while allowing full touchscreen functionality. With a spacious design, it accommodates most phones—even those with cases—ensuring your device stays safe and dry.</span></p><p><br></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(15, 17, 17);">6. </strong><a href="https://amzn.to/3KQqH7j" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);"><strong>Beach Bags Waterproof Sandproof</strong></a><span style="color: rgb(15, 17, 17);"> Pack everything you need in the oversized Beach Bags Waterproof Sandproof tote. Crafted from durable, recycled ripstop nylon, this eco-friendly bag keeps towels, snacks, and sunscreen secure and dry. Its interior pocket protects valuables, making it ideal for family outings or solo beach adventures.</span></p><p><br></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(15, 17, 17);">7. </strong><a href="https://amzn.to/3zlfVDi" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);"><strong>Solar Buddies Sunscreen Applicator</strong></a><span style="color: rgb(15, 17, 17);"> Make sunscreen application a breeze with the Solar Buddies Sunscreen Applicator. This BPA-free, refillable roller ensures mess-free coverage. Simply fill it with your preferred sunscreen, and its sponge roller delivers even application, perfect for kids and adults alike.</span></p><p><br></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(15, 17, 17);">8. </strong><a href="https://amzn.to/3Vyo6Uu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);"><strong>Ben Kaufman Cabana Stripe Beach & Pool Towel</strong></a><span style="color: rgb(15, 17, 17);"> Wrap yourself in comfort with the Ben Kaufman Cabana Stripe Beach Towel. Made from soft, absorbent cotton, this oversized towel (30" x 60") is designed for luxury and durability. Whether lounging on the sand or drying off after a swim, its plush texture promises a cozy beach experience.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(15, 17, 17);">Conclusion</strong><span style="color: rgb(15, 17, 17);"> With these essential beach companions in tow, you're all set for a memorable day by the sea. From sun protection and comfort to safety and style, these products ensure you're prepared for every aspect of beach life. Embrace the sun, surf, and sand with confidence, knowing you've equipped yourself with the best tools for a perfect beach getaway.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(15, 17, 17);"> </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(115, 115, 115);">We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon .com and affiliated sites at NO additional cost to you! We share products that we have used and love as well as those that have been recommended by others.</span></p>
<p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">RVNAhealth is excited to announce the launch of our tuition-free CNA school, a significant milestone in RVNAhealth’s mission to provide the highest quality care to patients while offering individuals the opportunity to embark on a rewarding career in healthcare. This 13-day course, held in our state-of-the-art Learning Center in Ridgefield, represents our unwavering commitment to fostering education and professional growth within our community. </span></p><p><br></p><h3><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Why Choose RVNAhealth’s CNA School?</span></h3><ol><li><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Tuition-Free Education</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Thanks to generous grant funds and a gift from a loyal RVNAhealth donor, we are able to offer this course at no cost to our students.</span></li><li><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Comprehensive Training</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: This 13-day program, in partnership with the Academy of Medical Training in Waterbury, is designed to thoroughly prepare students for the Connecticut CNA Exam.</span></li><li><strong style="background-color: transparent;">State-of-the-Art Facilities</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Our Learning Center in Ridgefield provides a modern, supportive environment conducive to learning.</span></li><li><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Career Opportunities</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Upon successful completion of the CNA Exam, graduates will have the opportunity to join the RVNAhealth team, where they can continue to grow and make a difference.</span></li></ol><p><br></p><h3><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Key Dates</span></h3><ul><li><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Interviews Begin</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: July 8th</span></li><li><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Class Dates</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: July 29th – August 13th</span></li></ul><p><br></p><h3><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Join Us in Making a Difference</span></h3><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">We are looking for dedicated and compassionate individuals who aspire to excel in the healthcare field. If you or someone you know is interested in this incredible opportunity, please reach out to our Human Resources department at </span><a href="mailto:apply@rvnahealth.org." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">apply@rvnahealth.org.</a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> This is more than just a training program; it's a chance to join a team that values excellence, integrity, and kindness in everything we do.</span></p><p><br></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">At RVNAhealth, we believe in empowering our community through education and professional development. By enrolling in our CNA school, you are taking the first step towards a fulfilling career in healthcare, where your work will have a profound impact on the lives of others.</span></p><p><br></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Don’t miss this opportunity to start your journey with RVNAhealth and become part of a team that truly cares. Contact us today and take the first step towards a brighter future!</span></p><p><br></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Contact Information</strong></p><ul><li><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Email</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: </span><a href="mailto:apply@rvnahealth.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent;">apply@rvnahealth.org</a></li></ul><p><br></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Let’s make a difference together!</span></p>
<p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">The Adirondack Wine & Food Festival returns to Lake George on Saturday, June 29 & Sunday, June 30. Recently voted a top 3 annual event by </span><a href="https://www.lakegeorge.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.lakegeorge.com</a><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"> the Festival will feature 140 of New York’s best wineries, distilleries, breweries, cideries, artisan food producers, food trucks, crafters, and more at the Charles R. Wood Festival Commons in Lake George Village. Tickets are available at </span><a href="http://www.adkwinefest.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: blue;">www.adkwinefest.com</a><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">The family-friendly event is one of the most celebrated wine and food events in the Northeast, drawing visitors from 36 states. Now in its 8</span><sup style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">th</sup><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"> year, the Festival anticipates 7,000+/- attendees this year. People visit the region specifically to attend the Festival; 88% to be exact, according to post-event attendee surveys. The 2024 Festival is expected to generate 12,000+ overnight stays and produce an economic impact of just under $5 million for the region.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">"We are thrilled to celebrate the 8th annual Wine and Food Festival here in Lake George," said Gina Mintzer, Executive Director of the Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce & CVB. "This event has become a cornerstone of our summer season, drawing visitors from near and far to experience the incredible culinary and craft beverage offerings of our region and beyond. The festival not only showcases the rich flavors of the Adirondacks but also significantly boosts tourism and visitation, providing a vital economic impact as we kick off the summer."</span></p><iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/D10oDpMKF9Q?showinfo=0"></iframe><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"></span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(28, 28, 28);">Thanks to its 2023 expansion onto West Brook Road to create “Food Truck Alley”, the festival will accommodate more vendors than ever this year – over 140 are on the docket, i</span><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">ncluding 29 wineries, 25 artisan food vendors, 17 food trucks, 20 distilleries, 9 non-alcoholic beverage producers, 5 cideries, 4 breweries, 3 meaderies, and 14+ craft and specialty vendors. “Our vendors handcraft unique products you won’t find anywhere else. It’s fun to try something new, and it feels great to support local artisans by bringing your newfound favorites home with you,” said Sasha Pardy, owner of Adirondack Festivals LLC. Food Truck Alley entry is free to the public “for those who just want a bite to eat but may not be able to or wish to enter the ticketed festival grounds,” added Pardy. </span><em style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">A current vendor list is provided below, but last-minute updates will be posted at </em><a href="http://adkwinefest.com/vendors" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><em>adkwinefest.com/vendors</em></a><em style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">.</em></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">New this year, Festival Entertainment is amped up with a 2-day lineup of unique vendors offering special activities including caricatures, massages, tarot card readings, and more. The Festival welcomes back a great lineup of local solo musicians organized by 518 Rock; as well as the impressive Street Magic of TJ Clancy, the jaw-dropping stilt walking, and aerial work from Jessica Black, and a 360-degree live photo booth from SNA 360 Media.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">The “Biergarten” tent managed by Adirondack Brewery is also returning to the festival. Attendees can purchase full glasses of Adirondack Brewery and Mean Max Beers, or Adirondack Winery wines, and sit back and relax in the shade while they chill with their friends.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Throughout the weekend, attendees will enjoy Culinary and Cocktail demonstrations and competitions under the exciting Taste New York Culinary & Cocktail Tent. These segments feature local chefs and mixologists as they prepare food and drinks made with ingredients supplied by Festival vendors. New this year, the Festival offers a Sushi Making Class and a Barkeater Chocolate and Wine Pairing Class; plus there will be two “Iron Chef”-style cooking competitions on Saturday, with the winners from each segment going head-to-head on Sunday; and a mixology competition on Sunday as well. This year our local chefs are Chef Sakari Smithwick </span><em style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">(recognized on national platforms such as Food Network’s Chopped and Fox’s Hell’s Kitchen)</em><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">, Chef Carl Weiner </span><em style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">(owner of San Souci)</em><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">, The Upstate Chef - Robert Murphy </span><em style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">(Executive Chef at the renowned Alderbrook Lodge)</em><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">, Chef Adam Bruce </span><em style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">(former Executive Chef of the Sagamore and Inn at Erlowest, now District Chef for Ballston Spa Schools)</em><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">. Our talented mixologists are Kelly Hatin </span><em style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">(Owner of Mixaritas Mobile Bartending + Mixafusion)</em><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"> and Heather Miller </span><em style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">(lead bartender at Adirondack Winery).</em></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"> For a sixth time, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Southern Adirondacks (BBBS) will return as the festival beneficiary. A portion of every ticket sold is donated to this incredible organization that provides mentorship, tutoring, and experiences to youth in Warren, Washington, and northern Saratoga counties. "We developed a great partnership with Sasha and her team while being the beneficiary of the ADK Wine & Food Festival. There are no words to express how grateful we are for their generosity! Their investment in our agency year after year ignites the potential of our local youth!" CEO/Executive Director Bill Moon states. BBBS operates the Drop-Off / Pick-Up Tent, where guests can “check” the beverages and foods they purchase at the festival until they are ready to leave. They also provide over 60 festival volunteers, sell water bottles, and raffle tickets to amazing gift baskets filled with goodies from Festival vendors. In partnership since 2018, BBBS has raised nearly $60,000 from Festival fundraising activities.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">“We encourage attendees to come with families, and especially locals to attend on Sundays when there is more room to roam and a more laid-back atmosphere. Designated Drivers get in for only $20 and Kids 15 and under get in free; and will enjoy access to food trucks, and samples from artisan food vendors and non-alcoholic beverage vendors. New this year, Adirondack Safari has provided a retired teepee tent for kids to draw on, and The Wild Center will be providing fun kids activities. There is also a natural playground and skatepark right outside our gates,” said Festival Manager, Brad Willett.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">For discerning Festival go-ers, VIP tickets are back for only $99, including an impressive VIP goodie bag, front-row seats at the Taste NY Culinary Tent, the Event-in-a-Tent VIP Hangout area, and exclusive access to the Adirondack Safari Cabana Village, which VIPs rent for their private group.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Tickets will be available at the door; however, Saturday VIP tickets are almost SOLD OUT and GA Saturday tickets have sold out in the past, so advance ticket purchase is highly recommended.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">This year, a free shuttle to parking lots at Million Dollar Beach and Lake George Village Hall is being provided by Tech Valley Shuttle.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"><u>Festival Details:</u></strong></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">When: </strong><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Saturday, June 29 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, June 30 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.</span></p><p><em style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">(VIP Ticket Holder Entry starts at 10 am each day)</em></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Where: </strong><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Charles R. Wood Festival Commons | 17 West Brook Road, Lake George, NY 12845</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Tickets</strong><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">: </span><a href="http://www.adkwinefest.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: blue;">www.adkwinefest.com</a></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>
<p>On June 10, 2024, Brewster Central School District leaders met up with State Senator Pete Harckham at Brewster High School to see the impact of a $100K Community Resilience, Economic Sustainability & Technology [CREST] grant from Senator Harckham and New York State. </p><p><br></p><p>The awarded CREST grant funding is among the State Senate grant programs administered by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY) to support community and economic development. </p><p><br></p><p>“The funding received from Senator Harckham’s Office has allowed us to take yet another step forward in the name of student safety. The re-keying of our high school allows for crucial time-saving measures for first responders, staff, and students in emergency situations. It also allows for more efficiency in non-emergency settings,” said Michelle Gosh, Ed.D. Deputy Superintendent.</p><p><br></p><p>The Brewster Central School District is grateful to have received this $100K grant from Senator Harckham and New York State.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">-- </span></p>
<p><strong>Please join the Putnam Chorale Summer Ensemble as we celebrate America in song. </strong></p><p><strong>Entitled <em>United Songs of America</em>, these three concerts in July highlight our shared musical heritage.</strong></p><p class="ql-align-center"> </p><p>Spanning American genres from patriotic to popular, hear Charles Ives’s works (including <strong><em>Variations on America</em></strong> in the Brewster church where Charles Ives first played it, now air conditioned), Peter Wilhousky’s stirring arrangement of <em>The Battle Hymn of the Republic,</em> and Randall Thompson’s <em>The Testament of Freedom</em>. In addition, classics like<em> I’ve Got Rhythm, Blue Skies</em> and others will round out the program.</p><p> </p><p>Music Director Jason Tramm explains “The music selected for this year’s Summer Ensemble is a celebration of the uniqueness of American choral music. From the great maverick composer, Charles Ives, to wonderful arrangements from the American Songbook, this program will be a joy for audiences!”</p><p> </p><p><strong>Saturday, July 6</strong>, 7:30 PM, First United Methodist Church (now air conditioned), 83 Main St, Brewster. <a href="https://putnamchorale.ticketleap.com/usa24-brewster/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Brewster Tickets July 6</strong></a></p><p><br></p><p><strong>Wednesday, July 10</strong>, 6:30 PM, at the Graymoor estate in Garrison, hosted by the Franciscan Friars and Sisters. (free concert)</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Sunday, July 14</strong>, 3:00 PM, St. Joachim Church in Beacon. <a href="https://putnamchorale.ticketleap.com/usa24-beacon/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Beacon Tickets July 14</strong></a></p><p><br></p><p>Tickets for the Brewster and Beacon concerts are $18 for adults; $15 for seniors and students. Children 12 and under are free. Tickets can be purchased at the door or online. More info (and tickets) at <a href="http://putnamchorale.org/usasongs/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: blue;">PutnamChorale.org/usasongs/</a></p><p><br></p>
<p class="ql-align-center"><br></p><p class="ql-align-center"><br></p><p class="ql-align-center"><strong style="color: rgb(7, 11, 38);">C.V. Starr Intermediate School Receives National Recognition from Project Lead The Way for Commitment to Empowering Students</strong></p><p class="ql-align-center"><strong style="color: rgb(7, 11, 38);"><em>Named a distinguished school for STEM curriculum and career readiness</em></strong></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(7, 11, 38);">C.V. Starr Intermediate School</span><strong style="color: rgb(7, 11, 38);"> </strong><span style="color: rgb(7, 11, 38);">has been recognized as a 2023-24 Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Distinguished School. This honor is given to a select number of elementary schools across the U.S. for providing broad access to transformative learning experiences for students through PLTW Launch, an elementary STEM curriculum. </span><a href="http://www.pltw.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">PLTW</a><span style="color: rgb(7, 11, 38);"> is a national nonprofit organization that serves millions of PreK-12 students and teachers in schools across the U.S., aiming to make every child in every grade STEM successful. </span></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(7, 11, 38);">“We are honored to be recognized as a</span><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"> </span><span style="color: rgb(7, 11, 38);">2023-24 Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Distinguished School. This would not have been possible without our teachers' hard work and dedication. They have embraced this program and are the key to its success here. </span><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">PLTW has been a game-changer for C.V. Starr. Our students are involved in</span><span style="color: rgb(7, 11, 38);"> real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain in-demand, transferable skills needed in today’s world. They engage in computational thinking, engineering, and biomedical science through hands-on activities, projects, and problems. Because of our work with PLTW, we now host a spring STEAM Expo where students are challenged to solve real-world problems. Their projects and designs show the skills they have learned with PLTW. It is truly amazing to watch our students explore and grow with PLTW,” said Principal Maggie Mccabe-Andriello.</span></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(7, 11, 38);">The PLTW Distinguished School recognition honors schools committed to increasing student access, engagement, and achievement in their PLTW programs. To be eligible for the designation, C.V. Starr Intermediate School had to have more than 75 percent of the student body participating in the program and had to offer at least one PLTW Launch module at each grade level during the 2022-23 school year. </span></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(7, 11, 38);">Studies show that students decide as early as elementary school whether they like, and think they are good at math and science. Whether designing a car safety belt or building digital animations based on their own short stories, PLTW Launch students engage in critical and creative thinking, build teamwork skills, and develop a passion for and confidence in STEM subjects. </span></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(7, 11, 38);">“We are honored to recognize C.V. Starr Intermediate School for their commitment to providing students with exceptional educational experiences while ensuring equitable access to PLTW programs,” said Dr. David Dimmett, PLTW President and CEO. </span><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">"We congratulate them on this achievement and celebrate their dedication to empowering students with the knowledge and skills to succeed, not only in STEM subjects but also in preparing them for future careers and life beyond the classroom."</span></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(7, 11, 38);">C.V. Starr Intermediate School is part of a community of PreK-12 schools, colleges and universities, and corporate and philanthropic partners across the country united around a commitment to providing students with inspiring, engaging, and empowering learning opportunities. For more information about PLTW’s Distinguished Program Recognition, visit </span><a href="https://www.pltw.org/pltw-program-recognition" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">https://www.pltw.org/pltw-program-recognition</a><span style="color: rgb(7, 11, 38);">.</span></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>
<p>Thirty-nine seniors at Brewster High School have received the New York State Seal of Biliteracy. The award recognizes students who have studied and attained proficiency in two or more languages by high school graduation.</p><p><br></p><p>The New York State Seal of Biliteracy (NYSSB) is an award given to high school graduates who have demonstrated a high level of proficiency in English and one or more world languages. The NYSSB encourages the study of languages, affirms the value of diversity in a multilingual society, and provides universities and future employers with additional information about applicants.</p><p><br></p><p> “We are very happy about this 2024 Seal of Biliteracy. We have once again reached a record number of recipients and BCSD has become a reference in the Hudson Valley area thanks to our successful program over the years” said Alexander Gutiérrez and Maider Solores, NYSSB Coordinators. </p><p><br></p><p>“We have been working with CUNY on their process to determine if the Seal of Biliteracy will be accepted as college credit for the foreign language requirements. After observing our work and analyzing some of our recipients' materials they have decided to accept the Seal as credit for the new students. We will continue working to extend this to the whole SUNY system” explained Alexander Gutiérrez. </p><p><br></p><p>This year, the BHS NYSSB program has been chosen to mentor a High School from NYC on their process to create their own Seal Program and received great feedback from colleagues in NYC. Because of all these achievements, the BCSD Seal of Biliteracy program has been highlighted in the New York State Education Department Guidelines for the Seal of Biliteracy.</p><p><br></p><p>“Biliteracy is a Superpower you can develop. It will allow you to break down language barriers and make connections on a deeper level. It can boost your brain power and open up career opportunities,” said BHS Principal Nicole Horler.</p><p><br></p><p>Two students obtained the NYSSB in English and 2 more world languages. Alicia Oliveros, who obtained her seal in English, Spanish and Italian, said, “I feel proud that all my hard work and dedication has been worth it. The ability to have learned 2 other languages is a privilege and I'm very thankful that I have the opportunity to do so. Learning 2 other languages makes me feel accomplished and proves to myself and others that with hard work you can accomplish anything”.</p><p><br></p><p>Amanda Guo, who obtained her Seal in English, Mandarin Chinese, and Spanish explained, “f<span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">or me, being trilingual means the ability to be able to connect with more people around me, and the responsibility to continue speaking the language, and continuously improve the languages that I know, in order to benefit my community, and those around me.”</span></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Guo went on to say, “Chinese is a very important language in my life, because all of my family members speak it, and my parents continuously emphasize the importance of maintaining the language with my family and relatives. Knowing Spanish is important to me as well, because many people in my school, and in my town speak Spanish, so being able to know Spanish as well, gives me an opportunity to connect and help them and support them in different ways.”</span></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">All students are excited and honored that they were able to obtain the Seal in multiple languages and grateful for all of the support and help they received from their teachers and advisors at BHS.</span></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>