Academics West’s annual Community Day, held at the Marjorie S. Deane Little Theatre, was more than just a graduation ceremony; it was a heartfelt celebration of growth, perseverance, and the power of personalized education. The ceremony began welcoming families, friends, faculty, and students into a morning filled with emotion and pride.
AW Co-founder Dr. Evan Flamenbaum opened the event with a warm welcome and an invitation for reflection: “Pause, close your eyes and think about the first day of school… How have you or your student changed since that day?” He spoke passionately about Academics West as a family, where natural, everyday interactions like students playing games with staff or having lunch with a teacher create a rich environment for learning and connection. “We help each other and, over time, care and support become fertile soil for growth and change.”
Senior graduate parent keynote speaker, Liz, delivered a deeply moving speech as both a parent and a longtime educator. Liz’s daughter was among the senior graduates, and her words encapsulated the essence of what makes Academics West unique.
“To all the staff and faculty—thank you. You don’t just teach. You listen. You support these kids. You create a place where students feel seen, not just evaluated.”
— Liz, Senior Graduate Parent KeyNOTE Speaker
She continued: “You don’t just talk about potential, you believe in it, even when others can’t yet see it.” Before her daughter started at Academics West, she struggled to see her potential.
Liz shared how, four years earlier, her daughter had withdrawn from school, friends, and family. The future felt uncertain, but with consistent support and belief in her daughter’s potential, especially from our Clinical Director, Dr. Thomas, and our Director of Education, Mr. Boynton, her daughter found a path forward. “Academics West has played a central role in my daughter’s journey. This school reminded us all what resilience looks like,” Liz said. “Your story is not defined by your struggles—it’s defined by what you do with them.”
The ceremony continued with reflections on a year filled with meaningful milestones: the school’s first senior trip to Area 53, visits from therapy dog Koa, and the launch of AW’s first yearbook. Awards were presented to students who excelled academically, displayed exceptional kindness, showed school spirit, and demonstrated a growth mindset.
Track Coach Chris Becker honored students who braved rain and nerves during AW’s second-ever track season. Student Life Coordinator, Kiera Mullany, celebrated the Heroes Council, a dedicated group of students who helped shape school culture behind the scenes.
New this year were recognitions for the National Honor Society, as well as citations from the Upper West Side City Council for outstanding community members across divisions. Art, STEM, and mentorship awards followed, each highlighting the multifaceted achievements of AW students.
“There’s many ways to define what makes a hero… At Academics West, we believe each one of you is the hero of your own story.” — Matt Boynton, Director of Education
Dr. Jeffrey Kassinove, AW’s Co-founder, delivered his signature Hero’s Journey speech, putting on a cape and mask to embody his message of transforming anxiety and fear into strength. In a powerful and theatrical moment, he encouraged students to embrace their vulnerabilities and view each challenge as an opportunity for growth. He reminded them that courage isn’t the absence of fear, but the decision to move forward despite it. His words served as a meaningful reminder that resilience is not built through perfection, but through persistence, self-belief, and the willingness to keep showing up at Academics West’s supportive environment.
Mr. Boynton presented the final student award, the 2025 Hero Award to Ace, a senior recognized for his friendship, resilience, and joyful spirit. The program continued with a heartfelt speech from a senior class speaker, who brought humor, emotion, and clarity to his story of growth.
“When I started at this school, I was loud, dramatic, and honestly thought I was Beyoncé… But this school helped me become more than just a loud kid with a lot to say.”
— Senior graduate, Class of 2025
Now, I’m chasing a dream,” he said. “Not the easy kind… I want to dance, choreograph, and travel the world, moving people not just with steps, but with stories.” Academics West has encouraged many students to follow their dreams.
After each graduate received their diploma and crossed the stage, Dr. Flamenbaum closed the ceremony by inviting seniors to move their tassels from right to left. “Congratulations,” he said. “You will never stop being a beloved member of this family. Without you, AW is like spaghetti without sauce.”
Community Day at Academics West is more than a tradition. It is a reflection of the school’s deep commitment to supporting students who thrive through individualized learning, emotional support, and a sense of belonging. It is a reminder that when students are seen, supported, and believed in, they are capable of achieving extraordinary things.
Interested in learning more about how Academics West empowers unique learners?
Email Admissions at admissions@academicswest.com, or fill out the contact form below to connect directly with Eleanor Wefing, our Admissions Coordinator, for a more personalized experience.
2025 Community Day/ Graduation Gallery
