Holyoke Transitions Academy’s recent fall open house connected students, family, staff, and community members with a celebration of the school’s new location and National Hispanic Heritage Month—along with a crowd-pleasing showcase of student performances. The program “brought together friends from different countries to honor our roots and share our stories,” said Transitions Academy student Jayden Rivera during his welcoming remarks.
Students and staff greeted visitors as they arrived on Thursday, September 25 at Transitions Academy’s new location at 206 Maple Street in the third-floor classroom space previously occupied by Holyoke High School’s Opportunity Academy. For many, it was their first look at the Academy’s new learning spaces since the school moved over the summer from its previous location in a former mill building on Open Square Way.
Transitions Academy prepares students ages 18-22 with disabilities for their change in status from a student to an emergent adult role.
During the recent open house, arriving guests were offered paper passports that were stamped as they visited students’ classrooms for a cultural showcase walkthrough. Each display included photos, maps, and key facts about a number of traditionally Spanish speaking countries as well as Puerto Rico. From there, everyone joined together for a cultural performance that featured poetry, dancing, music—and lots of smiles and laughter.
“This night was made possible because of your support, your encouragement, and your presence,” said Transitions Academy student Alberis Tejeda Rivera, who served as the master of ceremonies for the evening’s performance. “Together we make our community stronger, more colorful, and more unique. Thank you for being a part of our family here at Holyoke Transitions Academy. Have a wonderful evening, and we can’t wait to see you again soon.”
National Hispanic Heritage Month is an annual celebration of the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. It is celebrated each year from September 15 through October 15.