156942~Let’s hear it for El Portal and Rev. Sheedy—I am
perplexed at the total lack of celebration and applause from the
community over the news that El Portal Leadership Academy is
graduating its first class of seniors, of which a great majority is
going on to pursue higher education.
Thanks, Dina, for your recogniition of the accomplishments of El Portal’s first graduating class! These students have embraced and made the most of the “Second Chance” at academic success that El Portal offered them since its inception.
It should be known that the school’s primary mission is to prepare students for further education and, therefore, for productive lives in the community. This is good news for the community and region both socially and economically. Thus, El Portal should also be recognized by the Gilroy community as a good investment, as students with deep family roots in the area, return from their studies to assume their rightful place in the local economy, always in need of an educated and well-prepared workforce.
El Portal is blessed by a dedicated staff. As the proud father of a staff member who assists students with their College plans, I know of their tireless dedication that is required of all Educators and more so of those who work with students, who need and are willing to embrace, a “Second Chance.”
Who of us hasn’t needed and received “A Second Chance?”
El Portal deserves the recognition, prayers and support of the Gilroy community as they gradaute their first class!
