By Amanda Moses
On October 24th, Gateway Intermediate School (IS) 364 joined over 11,000 students at the Barclays Center for the largest education celebration, “I Will Graduate Day (IWG).” Some 179 schools across the city attended the annual event from 11am to 5pm.
IWG is a New York City-based nonprofit organization with a goal to support students in public schools combating low graduation and attendance rates. Since 2008, this event has engaged students through dance and motivational speeches from political leaders such as Chancellor David Banks, Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, Council Members Adrienne Adams, Rita Joseph, and Laurie Combo, as well as famed musicians and celebrities to underscore educational excellence.
“Graduation is a momentous occasion, marking the incredible culmination of a student’s formal studies. More than that, it represents the determination that I know all of our students have and partnering with organizations like I WILL GRADUATE helps to ensure that every child has what they need to graduate. Graduation is the first step on a lifelong adventure of learning, and it is incumbent on the entire community to stand with our young people taking this pledge today,” New York City School Chancellor David Banks said.
Everyone in attendance reiterated the same message: the key to success and a brighter future was through education and staying in school to achieve their goals. During the event, students were treated to live performances by their peers as well as celebrities, music, and additional fun.
“This was the biggest I WILL GRADUATE DAY yet, and the fact that it grows every year is a testament to the power of this work. New York City public school students and families often face immense challenges and academic success can seem out of reach. But we are here to show them that the future is in their hands and give them the support they need to graduate high school and excel long into adulthood. Today’s event was big, but it was just one piece of the work we do every day for New York City youth,” Tonya Lewis Taylor, co-founder and executive director of IWG, said.
Members of IS 364 and thousands of other students left the event knowing that there is an entire community rooting for their success. Additionally, it was cemented that there are those who will be there to uplift and empower them within the educational system and through various organizations.
Photos by Amanda Moses
