Congratulations to the BCCS Class of 2025
From first steps into the classroom to final walks on graduation day, BCCS students at the Children’s Education Center, Marcus Avenue Preschool, Post Avenue Preschool, and Barbara C. Wilson Preschool have come so far and we couldn’t be happier.
Graduation day is always a mix of emotions. There’s pride and excitement for what’s ahead, but also some sadness as we say goodbye to a place that’s been such a big part of our lives. For students, families, and staff, it marks the end of a meaningful chapter—and the start of a new one, full of new chances to learn, grow, and keep moving forward.
Michael’s Story
“I’m very proud of my son, but I always thought he was going to be in school forever,” said Linda Mancuso, whose son, Michael, 22, graduated from the Children’s Education Center (Ed Center) in Brookville. “And it’s not going to be forever, which is so sad because it was more than a blessing. It was effective for him, educationally, emotionally. It did so much for him.”
Michael started at the Ed Center three years ago, but that was not his first experience with BCCS and its family of organizations. As a preschooler, Michael attended Marcus Avenue Preschool, and growing up, each summer he attended Camp Loyaltown run by Citizens Options Unlimited. Michael also moved into the Children’s Residential Program as a teenager to further support his learning and growth.
With these supports, Michael has developed skills that are helping him discover what he wants for his life and how to best get there. Throughout the process, Michael’s family was always part of a team with teachers, staff, therapists and clinicians—all working not only for graduation day but for life.
Joey’s BCCS Journey
Fellow parent Suzanne Ceriello also noticed phenomenal progress in her son Joey, 21, who has attended the Ed Center for 7 years.
“He received everything that he needed,” Suzanne said. “He was receiving occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech, and counseling.”
Joey also learned skills to help his family with household chores, like laundry, cleaning and cooking.
At the Ed Center graduation, the Ceriello family were filled with pride as they looked ahead to what Joey’s future would bring. Still, it was hard to say goodbye to the school, teachers, staff and many friends made along the way.
BCCS Staff Says Goodbye
Barbara C. Wilson Preschool teacher Rukaiya Rahim can relate to those mixed feelings all too well.
“They say, ‘We plant these seeds. We water these seeds throughout the year, and then you have to let them bloom,’’” said Rukaiya. “It’s always emotional to let them go, because you’re always hoping that they go into another program that has the same level of support. We want to set them up for success.”
This year’s graduation ceremonies concluded an eventful year for Rukaiya, whose class saw tremendous growth throughout the year.
“This year was unique, because our kids who came into the school were born in 2020,” Rukaiya explained. “They were the kids that were born during the pandemic. They didn’t have access to in-person therapy for Early Intervention. A lot of them, if they did get therapy, did it virtually.”
Growing up in the Covid-era introduces many challenges to young people that previous generations may have not faced, such as an increased reliance on technology or anxiety around leaving home.
Because the staff at Barbara C. Wilson Preschool works as a team, teachers, therapists, and teachers’ assistants can meet the needs of each child, thinking outside the box to create an environment where students can grow, thrive, and enjoy their time in the classroom.
“It’s all teamwork,” Rukaiya said. “I’m just so grateful and blessed to have such an amazing team. It’s about following through with the behavior plan and everybody being on the same page.”
Starting July 1, many students will return to BCCS for summer school, a time when students and staff create fun summer memories while continuing the progress made throughout the year. Whether in school or at home, we wish all graduates, students, and families a sunny and enjoyable summer!