Class of 2009 Graduation Ceremony
State of Maine Department of Education
Brandy Mansfield, Education Commissioner Susan Gendron, and
William J. Grondin at the Graduation Ceremony July 9, 2009
Blaine House, Augusta, Maine
AUGUSTA - Brandy Mansfield of Whitefield and William J. Grondin, "Billy," of Chelsea received Maine Department of Education diplomas on Thursday, July 9th at the Blaine House in Augusta. Education Commissioner Susan Gendron spoke about the wonderful "learner-centered" opportunity this diploma gives to students who experience education disruption and how hard these students have worked to finish their education. She talked about the process for attaining the diploma, and how she herself is responsible for reviewing each of their portfolios. She told them that when she was a Kindergarten teacher in Windham she would read her students the tale of Ms. Rumphius, and tell them that they too needed to not only follow their dreams, but also do something to make the world a better place. She told them, "Follow your goals, explore, and be real clear about what you want to do. Do something to make the world more beautiful."
Brandy and Billy both made remarks at the ceremony and thanked their teachers for all the help and support they had provided along the way. The Maine Department of Education Repertory Ensemble of Maine, the "Doe Re Mes," sang the song I Hope You Dance, before Commissioner Gendron concluded the ceremony with the remark, "Thank you, [I applaud] your willpower that has brought you here today. Congratulations."
I caught up with Brandy and Billy after the ceremony and asked them some questions about the path they had taken and their plans for the future.
What words of wisdom would you give to other students in similar situations?
Billy: To work hard and do as well as you can in school and never give up.
Brandy: To work through it, [know that] it's really not that hard.
What would you change about your school experience?
Billy: I'm glad I switched schools, I got more one on one help because of this. So there isn't anything I would change.
Brandy: Nothing.
Who was your personal champion? Who helped you "make it through?"
Billy: My mom, Brandy Grondin, and my teachers.
Brandy: My mom, Kathy Mansfield, and my teachers Ms. Trann and Ms. Brooks.
What are your plans now that you have finished High School?
Billy: I am going to do an apprenticeship in plumbing and heating and live and work in Chelsea, where I grew up. I am looking forward to giving back to my community.
Brandy: I am going to Cosmetology school [to specialize in hair and makeup] in the fall to get a higher degree. Eventually down the road I am also planning to get a degree in Massage Therapy.
By Staff Writer/Photographer Jenny Hartung, jenny@mainesupportnetwork.org
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The graduate's procession.
Billy receiving his diploma.
Brandy receiving her diploma.
The Doe Re Mes sing I Hope You Dance
