Nearly 100 family members, friends and other supporters showed up for the graduation of 28 Transition to Life Academy students at the Scottish Rite Masonic Center on Friday, June 1.
The Transition to Life Academy in Boynton Beach is the tuition-free public charter school of Gulfstream Goodwill Academies, operated by Gulfstream Goodwill Industries, serving youth 18 to 21 years old with intellectual disabilities.
“Today isn’t just about graduation day, it’s about what you’re going to do next… taking what you’ve learned and putting your full abilities to work for a happy life,” Gulfstream Goodwill Industries President Marvin A. Tanck told the graduates.
Tanck has been with the Goodwill family for 44 years and will be retiring at the end of the year. He has seen more than 364 students graduate from the school since its opening in 2004.
This is the fifth year that the Scottish Rite has provided space for the school to hold its student graduation ceremony and luncheon. The Scottish Rite also provides space for the school to hold special events, such as the student Valentine’s Day dance, throughout the year.
“We are so very grateful for the relationship our school has with the Scottish Rite,” Director of Charter Schools Cindy Maunder said. “They are super supportive of our students, and we appreciate that so much. Community partnerships like these are very important to our school’s success.”
Academy students in training programs receive a daily stipend, and transportation is provided. The school’s mission is to provide the skills necessary for adult life so that each individual will be an independent, self-sufficient and contributing member of the community. Learn more at www.gulfstreamgoodwill.org/charter.
