Class of 2008 were honored at a graduation
ceremony at the school. Principal Howard
Helfman and Trustee Mary Ann Cronheim
distributed diplomas to (pictured top to
bottom) Shachi Benara, Amanda Bowman,
Sanjit Chidambaran, Heather Delaney,
Vincent Marzullo, Viral Shah, Cory
Waddington, and Ava Zappulla.
Dr. Paskowitz addressed the parents and children and
drew parallels between the graduates and the ceremony's
theme which was inspired by Swimmy, by Leo Lionni, a
story of a fish who was different from other fish in his
“school”.
“Difference is great,” said Dr. Paskowitz. “Swim
ahead and show your child how to find
strength in him or herself. Don't take away
the difference. When you're different
together you can conquer the world.”
Jolly Shah said, “Summit Speech School has
given Viral a great foundation. When he started
he hardly spoke at all. Now, he is talking all the time
and asking questions about everything.
You can't stop him!”
Hemangi Benara spoke of the program's huge
benefits to her daughter. “Shachi came here a little
girl of two and barely able to communicate. Today
she graduates telling me which dress she wants to
wear! Summit Speech School has provided us with
moral support and a whole network of parents who have
become friends for life.”
Gina Marzullo reflected on her son's growth. “Vincent
was shy before he came to Summit Speech School and
now he has so many interests and friends. He is not
afraid to try new things. They have given him
the foundation to become the best person he
could be and I know this experience will stay
with him forever.”