GRAND ARMY PLAZA — THE BROOKLYN PUBLIC LIBRARY hosted a graduation ceremony Friday morning for adults completing their high school diploma and passing the General Educational Development test.
The BPL celebrated graduates from all walks of life who participated in the library’s free educational programs to earn their diplomas, including business owners, immigrants, parents, older people and more. NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection Commissioner Samuel A.A. Levine gave the commencement address, encouraging the graduates as they embark on their career journeys.
“For a long time, earning my diploma was something I wanted to accomplish, but life took me in different directions. Enrolling in this program was my way of proving to myself that I am capable, resilient, and committed to reaching my goals,” said one new graduate.
Last year, the reported dropout rate for high schoolers was 5.2%, with an 81.2% graduation rate across the city. The BPL offers free programs to adults who want to continue their education, with classes preparing them for the GED test, offering case management and support services, and providing other resources.
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