LITTLETON, Maine – Youngsters enrolled in the Maliseet Head Start program earned their diplomas Thursday, June 4, with a special ceremony at the HBMI Community Gymnasium.
The group of 20 children marched into the gym to the sound of Native American drumming and were welcomed by Head Start Director Tracie Botting. Tribal Elder Danya Boyce provided the blessing and Tribal Chief Clarissa Sabattis shared how excited she was for the future of the tribal community.
The youths then sang several numbers, including counting to 10 in Maliseet, the Wolastoq Song, the Dream Song and the Welcome Song.
After presenting each student with a gift bag and certificate, a slide show highlighting some of the many activities held throughout the year was shown.
Children receiving their certificates were: Ivy Aguirre, Silas Bridges, Crue Caron, Mason Connors, Braylon Cummings, Billy Davenport, William Duffy, Myles Flewelling, Ronin Frederick, Jaxyn Hanning, Liberty Lewis, Caliece Lorom, Waylon Polchies, Clayton Quint, Jason Raymond, Aiden Rogers, Nolan Smith, Norah Swallow, Carson Tingley and Peyton Tingley.
Following the graduation ceremony, guests enjoyed a catered lunch and cake.
