Students, faculty and staff of Passaic County Technical-Vocational Schools (PCTVS) celebrated the start of summer with memorable graduation ceremonies for Passaic County Technical Institute and the STEM Academy. For Passaic County Technical Institute (PCTI), this year marked the 58th annual commencement on Friday, June 24th with two graduations at 2 pm and 6 pm, as over 840 seniors bid farewell as the Class of 2022. On Thursday, June 23rd, the STEM Academy celebrated a historic graduation event as the “very first” graduating class of the STEM Academy High School which opened its doors in 2018. The atmosphere was electric as seniors from each graduation ceremony were cheered on by the applause of parents, families, and friends. A giant version of the school’s inflatable Bulldog mascot looked on as the graduates from each program of study were led onto the field by their respective program banners. PCTI NJROTC students lead the graduates in the procession and presented the colors for the flag salute and the National Anthem. The school’s Alma Mater followed played by the PCTVS Band, and was performed by the PCTI Vocal Ensemble students, American Sign Language Club students, and graduating seniors. PCTVS welcomed more than 4,500 guests to the ceremonies who came out to support this year’s graduating classes. Joining the 3 graduation festivities were PCTVS administration, members of the PCTVS Board of Education and members of the Passaic County Board of County Commissioners.

For the first graduating class of the STEM Academy on the excitement was palpable as students from the three STEM Career Pathways marched onto the field as the trailblazers of future STEM Classes to come. Stirring addresses were provided by Superintendent John Maiello, Principal Joaquim Johnson, Passaic County Commissioner, John Bartlett, and Mrs. Diana C. Lobosco, for whom the STEM Academy was named in her honor. Class President, Ashley Bonnet welcomed all in attendance and Valedictorian Cameron Farid and Salutatorian Victoria Mistretta both gave enjoyable speeches of their experiences including words of wisdom for their peers.

Next came Friday’s graduations for Passaic County Technical Institute which hailed the graduates from thirteen diversified CTE areas of study. Class President Catrina Kiel welcomed everyone attendance. Valedictorian Diya Patel and Salutatorian Tracey Gil, reminisced about profound events in their PCTI careers. Superintendent John Maiello was joined by Passaic County Commissioner Director, Bruce James, and PCTI Principal Antonio Garcia in addressing the students with inspiring remarks.

The adventure of yet another school year came to an end as the PCTVS graduating classes of PCTI and the STEM Academy walked the football field for the last time and achieved the much coveted goal of graduation. Congratulations to the great graduating Class of 2022 and best of luck in the future!