Purnell Graduation

Tales from the Road with Rick Lavoie

All high school graduations are special...but some are more special than others. Commencements are particularly meaningful and significant when the students have struggled greatly in their high school careers. For those kids, the commencement ceremony is truly a victory...for them, their families and their teachers. Last month, I was honored to deliver the Graduation Address at the Purnell School in New Jersey. This renowned program serves girls who -- for one reason or another -- have experienced academic difficulty in high school. Purnell supplies these girls with a safe harbor where they can develop their unique skills, make lifelong friends and prepare for the challenges of college. Like many schools with similar missions, Purnell is in the "self-esteem business". By establishing and maintaining a balance of "support and challenge", these girls gain the confidence and competence. The graduation ceremony clearly reflected this. In this episode, I share that special day with you.