Monday, June 16, 2014

Jackson-Feild Homes: First boys graduate from Gwaltney School

June 6 was a historic day for the Edna Hayden Gwaltney School at Jackson-Feild Homes. For the first time in its history, two boys were among the graduates receiving their degrees. The school began accepting male students in fall of 2012.

The ceremony was held at the Golden Leaf Commons at the Southside Virginia Community College Emporia Campus. Dr. Bill Bowling, Director of Education, presided over the celebration. Local author, Nancy Naigle, served as the commencement speaker. Mrs. Naigle is the author of six novels and suspense stories. Mrs. Naigle has a special place in her heart for Jackson-Feild and the children it serves. Her meaningful and inspirational message of stepping out into the world and embracing a new and exciting future resonated with those in the audience.

Some of the residents received their high school diploma, others received their GED, and a two other students received their Certified Nurse's Aide Certification. The faculty and staff of Gwaltney School did a great job preparing these graduates for this milestone and provided them with the knowledge and skills for future success.

This is the Gwaltney School's seventeenth graduation ceremony with 146 graduates receiving either their high school diploma or their GED.

In honor and recognition of the children's work, an anonymous donor provided a bouquet of roses for each girl, a wallet for each boy, and a gift card for each graduate.