Celebrating Our Class of 2023 Graduates
Congratulations to the Class of 2023 across all of our TYWLS and CBI partner schools! Over 2,800 students graduated high school this spring and we are proud to celebrate their successes and triumphs.
An Atypical High School Journey
The Class of 2023 started their high school journeys during a global pandemic. They faced challenges of remote learning, mental health and wellness, and personal losses. In their sophomore and junior years, the return to school was met with social distancing. While their first “normal” year would also be their last, students embraced their whole selves and made spaces for each other to be vulnerable, resilient, and confident. TYWLS Brooklyn’s graduation student speaker Madison shared, “We have all experienced the world differently, but have never looked down on one another. I always saw students helping classmates so they wouldn’t fall behind. We are all capable of doing more than we give ourselves credit for.”
Students shared that years of pandemic-fueled changes led to shifts in how they view growth. Sabrina, Union Square Academy’s valedictorian, reflected: “I’ve learned that each opportunity is also a chance to succeed. Let us not be afraid of failure, and look at failure as a chance to grow.” As Tasmia, the valedictorian from Central Park High School, noted, “Our perseverance and courage is unmatched. Life is always filled with ups and downs; even the bad things can lead to something great.”
I’ve learned that each opportunity is also a chance to succeed. Let us not be afraid of failure, and look at failure as a chance to grow.
Sabrina, Union Square Academy, Class of 2023
Wise Words for Our Graduates
Faculty and staff championed embracing vulnerability and growing one’s self from an authentic place. Former TYWLS Brooklyn English teacher Massawa Stevens-Morrison encouraged students to carve their own paths, even when that path feels uncomfortable: “Here, take up space. Let them struggle through pronouncing your name. Let them search for answers as you pose the tough questions. Most importantly, make sure you create spaces in which you can thrive.”
Keynote speakers contributed to the inspirational and celebratory mood of the graduations. House Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez made a surprise appearance at TYWLS Astoria to congratulate the families. Social impact and real estate entrepreneur Jamar Adams spoke to Business of Sports School’s students about developing daily habits that drive them towards success. At TYWLS Bronx, Oprah Winfrey Networks producer Fatima Elswify shared learnings from her own winding path: “Seeds have to go down into the ground first before they can sprout. Do not despise humble beginnings. Don’t be scared if your steps have to be redirected. Your purpose on earth will be fulfilled no matter what it looks like.”
Welcome to the Alumni Community
The Class of 2023 have much to celebrate. Over 2,800 high school graduates cheered each other on at their schools’ College Signing Days and graduations. Over 900 students now identify as first-generation college students, and the class includes 15 QuestBridge Scholars and two Posse Foundation Scholars. As they begin the next step of their journeys, SL Network will continue to offer services and support for college success. Congratulations once again to all of our graduates, and welcome to SL Network’s alumni community!
