BCA Graduation 2025

[Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] [Applause] [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] Heat. [Music] Heat. [Music] Welcome graduateselcome, parents, esteemed staff, friends, and family. Today is a great day. [Applause] I'm sorry. Today is a great day. [Applause] We begin with messages of recognition and thanks as certain individuals have a daily profound effect on our lives at BCA. But before I do so, I must acknowledge the alumni in the room. We have a kala, an alumni who is here who's married in 48 hours. Divo, are you hiding something? All right, which makes sense as well. Welcome back, Merito. And as well, I met Julia Hirs this evening, who's here as well. A special welcome. A special welcome and thanks to our co-founders, Mrs. Wallerstein and the elephant. I bunched the two of you together because I've never seen a brother and sister combo like this. If if I spoke this often to my sister, we would not have this outcome. There are people who make choices in life. [Music] Some to slow down, some to play golf, some to retire, some to go to Los Angeles, Florida, Bloomingdales. anything to lighten the load. The two of you chose to visit your lives within the numas, the precious Nishundas of Cly Israel. What we do on the ground can only be accomplished because of what you all do up top. the security that you provide for all programs or NAVA and assuring that BCA is your favorite of the programs is certain certainly something that is dear to us and we hope that we make you proud as well. I'd like to acknowledge I know he's in the back of the room Yankee Rosenberg as well. Certainly a treat to have you here and I know like everyone else here you'll leave with a tremendous smile. You see two of our I almost called them alumni. Two of our current students Y and Bella gave me a thumbs down before when I said today is a great day because it is. It's bittersweet. We are so excited to see our graduates move on. While they certainly will be missed, I'd like to acknowledge the ongoing support of Dr. Templer although he is not here this evening he has been the pillar of BCA since its inception he is not here must be mentioned it's felt in our hearts being part of the foundational thrust of BCA and the ongoing support is a merit that you have and something that I'm truly jealous of the school is named for your late wife Kaya I've been principal in BCA for the last three years and since I've been here have been a minimal of at least two kaya as in BCA which for me is a symbol of life who you're the school is named for her and she may continue to be a mayus on our behalf. I'd like to acknowledge our school's founder, builder and mentor even so many years after his passing. His message resonates the halls of BCA Delhi. Rabbi Zahari Rab Zahari Wallerstein, one of the current students in this room who we interviewed a little while ago, her parent saw the picture of Abby Waller as he walked in the building. And after the interview, she turned to her daughter and said, "What an arrogant principal. He put a principal of he put a picture of himself in a giant photo in the entrance of the building and later my parents teachers conferences she came up to me and told me about this incident and I said I am flattered. Do you even have the image of Wallerstein or the look alike? I'll take it but the age we are a solid x amount of years apart. We learn in quales to mash and to a good oil is better than a good name or toem actually the other way around. A good name is better than a good oil. You see, you can drop a drop of oil on the pavement and it'll last a certain amount of time. You can ask our students sometimes they they're artistic on the walls of our building. It doesn't last. But a good name to Shem and Tove will last for generations. Maria Watson's name goes beyond the institution that was built. It's a Shinto, a name that teaches so many lessons in care, lessons in belief, lessons in devotion. So many of the Boss today believe in themselves because of the work of Rabbi. The teachers of BCA live his message on. his legacy, his voice, these his words are stronger than ever. May his nish continue to be a meosha for his family, histo. A school is only as good as as its staff and we have a starstudded staff. Dr. Joffin, our clinical director, Your brilliance brings balance to the students and the teachers. Dr. Jofflin works tirelessly day and night ensuring that each student is surrounded by the ultimate team while guiding the life needs of all. Muny is truly blessed to have the future presence of Rabbi and Dr. Jaffin residing amongst them. Mr. Daniel, our administrator. The wheels of BC only turn because of your careful oversight for all needs. Your tulos and your kukaratcha that you're constantly making, whatever that is called. What? Karacha. The karacha. My wife was feeling stress from her own class one day. My wife is a first and third grade teacher and I told her that she should make a cookaratcha and and didn't go over so well. Mrs. Sadia, your care shines throughout all that you do, what you wouldn't do for the girls of BCA. Thank you. All right, moving along. Office staff, Shira. Shira has a very difficult job. You could ask our current students. the opening face of BCA who greets with uniform reminders, collecting phones and then collecting them again and again throughout the day. As far as we're concerned, you are not Rabbi Gber's daughter. She has a father named Rab Gber. Thank you. Moving on to our morning staff, Rabbi Stern. [Applause] I think all would agree with me. The Duncan smile. The Duncan smile says it all. The surro is ready and the message of direct is to start the day for all. Thank you. Mrs. Pon, one of the graduates sitting up sitting next to me, your first day of class for her, she said, "I will never go back into that room and hear another class from her. She is way too happy. I will embarrass no one, but she is one of your greatest fans today. Your sunshine radiates everyone's day with your happiness, your warmth, and mustard. I hear that you make a very good cheesecake, too. [Music] All right, Mrs. Fishman. Mrs. Fishman, are I hope you're you're done grilling your devotion for our girls in and out of the classroom, as we will see in a few hours. That's aside from the wisdom that you impart on them daily. Thank you. Aivit, are you in the room? Ry Zifferman, who I did not send an invitation to, but I knew he was coming. As you see on my paper, Zifferman, our Friday secret weapon. We've made Friday great again at BCA. Your lessons are quartered often by our girls, and that makes it worth it all. Thank you, Rabbi. Mrs. Barciano BCA Shabatones Rashadesh events and overall decorum at BCA has never been the same. You truly add flavor and we desperately need it. Thank you. Thank you. Mr. Jacobitz, are you here? Okay. I won't single out any more teachers that are not here. Mrs. Misy who is present. Math, the lunch table, Pilates. She does it all. Mrs. Misky, you are the life of the party and we certainly need that party. Thank you for all. Mrs. Mrs. Zaryier, Mrs. Mary, you hold together all PP needs. Not an easy job. Assuring each student will have a chance at success. Thank you, Mrs. Aar. And the last of our morning staff, Conclar, are you present? Okay, moving forward. I see our graduates are starting to get antsy. Sorry, I have the mic now. All right, afternoon. Shi Zeffir Shangi hiding in the back. Shandi, your classroom drive never lets up. who has strength at the end of the day to teach bio and with enthusiasm, anatomy, Jewish history. You inspire in and out of the classroom, always with a song. You are a gem to have on staff. Thank you, Edo Lavine. Also pres [Applause] English at BCA. That's right. We are an advanced English class. Mishmar summer work programs opportunities that are hidden are true hidden secrets for our girls. Thank you for all that you do. Mrs. Goldberg, just a great teacher to smoo with making Spanish exciting. She is a presence in any room she enters and we are privileged to have her. Thank you so much. Mrs. Sil you bring out a powerful expression through art. A class that's looked forward to by our girls throughout the week. Thank you. Mr. Schneider, your presence. Okay. Ricky, are you somewhere in this room? Ricky will be here shortly. Moving on. Bailey, are you here? Wow. So, a round of appla. Before I get on to Bailey, I do want to acknowledge one more alumni that I just saw, Kayla. Welcome, Kayla. Nice to see you. Bailey, economics after lunch is not an easy task, but well accepted. You have students in your class that don't belong there. Co-eing English just added an extra layer to it with your presence. Thank you, Rafa. Are you present? Okay, Mrs. Blobs, our support team, your Monday classes and student support is a lifebuilding task that takes place in the most silent but yet important way. Ready and able to be part of it all. Whether it to be to sub a history class or mental health support, you are present. Thank you for all the support. Dr. Benitar Can we now advance to being our senior trip coordinator? Dr. Benitar, where are you? From across the room from senior trip to Thursday impact, an invaluable resource to have on staff. Thank you, Dr. Benitar. Thank you. At request of our graduates, one asked me, can you please begin today's speeches with the way we start our day in VCA? And so, here it goes. Good morning, ladies. It's going to be a great day today at BCA. Uniforms on, phones in the box. Let's make this a BCA day. Let's do it. Rory, where do you belong? Sorry, we needed to do this. It seemed like yesterday that Dr. Joff and I interviewed most of you. And now we celebrate with you as our graduating class. Graduates, today is your day. Today is our day. We are so proud and do acknowledge and agree with the expression one of you gave me which is today is bittersweet. Today is bittersweet. We will miss you but we are so happy to see what you've done and where you'll be going. A graduating class of six looks small but it's the individual greatness that fills this room. You are royalty. You are a princess and you are worth millions. Seeing our graduate take the daring step to their next journey of life could not make us prouder. I normally I normally will be sharing words of shab with a brief of our Torah. Now I'd rather take a step back and hear what you have to say. We have no validictorian and no slowum. Every girl is our star whose voice should be heard. I would like to call up each graduate individually to share a few words in no particular order. Actually, do we have any volunteers who will speak first? By popular demand, Rory, before you stand up here, it was necessary to have this student on a month-long probation as a condition to accept her to BCA. Yes, I'm referring to Rory. She travels from far and yet is usually early unless it's Tuesday and she's taking the day off. Her diligence, depth, and just plain delight to be around are just some of the qualities that we see daily. Rory was often a team leader when it comes time to a group challenge, a class project, or whatever is need. Rory, I cannot be proudered in seeing you graduate. Please come up and say a few words. [Applause] Okay. Hi. Good evening. Um, thanks to everyone who could come. I know this is not the best time for graduation. 5:30 supposedly on a Monday. Now, majority of people are happy and content to find a place to call. Some are lucky to find two, but I am able to say that I found three. My family, my aunt's home where I lived for my first year at BCA, and BCA itself. Now, I don't want to be cliche, but if I had to use the quote to describe BCA, it would be, "How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard?" I've been blessed with incredible luck because BCA is a is a one of a kind gem. It's not a school, it's a family. When you walk into BCA from 10:00 a.m. to 3:20, you are seen, cared for, heard, and thought about. Um, the staff is always reaching out and connecting with the students. Memories are constantly being built because that's what BCA is, constant. Many can attest that, especially this year. Most of my time has been split up between Rabbi and Essie's office with the occasional appearance in a class or two. So, I know firsthand how much is put into making each day the best it can be for the students because that is the goal of the school. And you feel it and you feel the warmth from all the teachers. My success is their success. My failure is their failure. But they don't let me leave it at failure. they'll always push for better. So, from the bottom of my heart, thank you. Um, I have some thank yous I need to say. Sorry. Thank you to Dr. Tupler for all the support you've given BCA over the years and for starting this institution. So, thank you. While I didn't know Rabbi Wallerstein, I think he'd be very proud of us right now. And I have so much gratitude to him for this amazing for this amazing man who had an idea and created my favorite place to be. Thank you, Rabbi Walsh. To Essie and Yonke, thank you. What you do for the school can never be replicated. To Essie, let's be real. This place wouldn't function without you. What you do for us, what you've done for me can never be forgotten. Your office is still one of my favorite spots to chill in when Rabbi's office is unavailable. So, thank you. Um, Rabbi, I have so much gratitude to you, but because I can't pull Popo, I'll simplify. Like Essie, without this school, without you, this school stops functioning. You can't ever close your office or you'll hear a choir of rabbis in different tones and pitches. Sitting in your office is one of my favorite things to do. Thank you for all the advice and how you just know who you can push when you and when you can. You come to school every day with the intention just to make the day better than yesterday. You've truly shaped my school experience. Thank you for taking a chance on me and seeing below the surface. I know originally I wasn't considered right for BCA, but you gave me the chance to prove it differently. So, thank you, Rabbi. Um, Missy, you got to get a little personal shout out. What can I even say? Note how Haley, um, for from day one at BCA, we vibe, you taught me so much, both math and life lessons. You were always there to give me advice and lifted me up. Even when I couldn't see myself the way you did, you never gave up trying to make me see. So lucky because I know you're going to see me through all my essays. Thank you for all you've done for me. Thank you to my parents for putting me in DCA. To my mother especially, she did what she had to to get me into a school and to keep me there. So, thank you. Thank you to my grandparents who supported me and got me into school as well. Thank you to my aunt for opening up her home and her life for my first year of BCA. Go. Thank you to all the staff in BCA. You're amazing. You're rock stars. Um, yeah. And as a wise person said to me once, it's been real poops. Bella, did you hear that? It's been real poops. [Music] Our next graduate out of a stadium of 22,000 fans, I think that the one who enjoyed being on the jumbotron more than anyone is FA. And yet there she was, front and center, crawling back into her seat at the Islanders game as her moment of fame was upon her. I looked up towards Hashem and said, "Wow, of the 22,000 in the room." [Applause] Fay travels from far and rarely misses a day. Her maturity, her classroom etiquette, and trustworthy friendship are some of Fay's shining qualities. Fay accomplished so much during her one year at BCA. and I know she will continue to do so as she journeys on in life. Babe, please come on up and say I would like to give my deepest appreciation to Dr. for starting BCA. I would not be the person I am without your investments in school and your support over the years. I want to thank Yankee Elephant for your constant dedication and commitment to the BCA legacy and for continuing what Rabbi Wallerstein did for so many. Mrs. Wall, thank you for supporting BCA. Thank you for supporting Rabbi Wallerstein in his drive to change to create change in the world and for your continuous continuous continuous effort to ensure that it continues. None of us would have made it to the place to the places we did without Rabbi Wallerstein and for everyone he came in contact with. In addition, the reason BCA is the the warm and safe place that it is is because Rabinian and his ability to see us for our potential rather than our attitude. Rabian, thank you so much for believing in me and I can believe in myself. Thank you for the opportunities you provided. provided for me and and your unwavering presence in my life. Without and thank you to all teachers who without them the atmosphere on BCA wouldn't be what it is. Thank you for making the classroom alive and creating space of no judgment. I am so grateful to everyone to everything that you have done over the course of this year. If I were to tell my next grade so I would be graduating. She'd be like, "Are we really still in this school?" I'd laugh in her face. I'd laugh. I'd laugh in her face, not believing, not believing it was possible, but hoping for something too good to be true. If I were to tell my 10th grade self that we were graduating, she'd ask, "Have we found our place?" I would laugh at her. Not I'm not on the right path. I'm not on the right path yet, but it's a start. If I tell my 11th grade self that I'm graduating today, she'd laugh and ask how. We're not going back to school. We're not in school. We're not happy we're going back ever. If I tell my 12th grade self that we're graduating, she'd be like, "I'm so proud you stuck it out and made it. I'm so happy you believed in yourself. You believed in yourself and accomplished more than you thought possible." The overall day in the in day life day-to-day life in BCA truly benefited me. The teachers, the classes, the friendships I wouldn't have experienced in any other schools. All these pieces played a major role in why BCA helped shape me into the person I am today. The journey has not been easy, but every step was worth the struggle for me to begin to realize my ultimate potential and to accomplish much so much more from this day on. The growth the growth that I've had is not only because of the BCA investment of the is because of the investment of the incredible staff in BCA. I want to thank my parents who have been there for me every step of the way and were still and were and are still my unwavering support system I needed. I'm so grateful for all the time and work it took it took to give me this unbelievable opportunity. If I would have told myself at any point in life that I would be standing up here speaking about all that I have gained, I wouldn't believe it. I'd be in shock. my appreciation. I'd be shocked by my appreciation for myself and my accomplishments. This new mindset is all because of you guys. Thank you so much for changing my life. Before I introduce the next graduate, like to acknowledge also I don't know how to frame this. So many people contribute towards our school on a random basis on occasion get a personality like Jod's that comes to tell me about clothing and I know anything about loan's clothing I don't know but all she wants to do is help and be a part of the girls grow. Thank you Jody. Thank you for all. [Applause] Our next graduate, she expressed to me that she's been waiting a long time for this moment. But not the actual graduation. No, rather what will Rabbi say about me when he's introducing me for my speech? Zipura, your grace, your power of expression is unique through fashion. I've often heard teachers asking you for tips. You seek truth always, especially in an argumentative discussion with your rev or at a lunch table discussion together with Mrs. MSY and crew. This is something that we will miss. Your se your You're constant seeking out MS. Your ability to keep the schedule, your diligence, whether it be early AM for a workout or any other part of the day is exact is exemplary. That means I call you up in Italian. This kind of feels unreal being here after 3 years. But if you told me 3 years ago I'd be standing here stronger, healthier, and more connected to myself than ever, I probably would have cried back then. And I felt it it felt impossible. But today it feels like a dream come true. When I first came to BCA, I was struggling not just with school but myself. Mentally I was in a rough place. I felt lost like I was just trying to make it through the day. As my journey in BCA continued, it showed me something unique. This school wasn't about pushing through and pretending everything was always fine. It was about stopping, peeling, and starting again stronger. My second year, I started to rebuild little by little, and I began to understand who I was and what I needed. At this point, I wasn't surviving anymore. I was growing. And this year, I reached a whole new part of myself, a part I didn't know existed. Spiritually, I've never felt more grounded. I've learned how to connect with my soul, with my purpose, and with something greater than me. I'm leaving BCA now, but I'm not afraid because the people I've met here, the teachers, my classmates, they're not just a part of my school experience, they're a part of my life. The love, support, and belief I've felt here will always be with me. I want to thank every teacher who showed me who showed up for me. You didn't just teach me lessons from the books. You taught me lessons about life, relationships, and believing someone even when they're struggling. You Your guys unconditional love really gave me hope. To my family and friends. Thank you for being my foundation through the highs, the lows, the breakdowns, and the breakthroughs. Your love, encouragement, and endless patience carried me through the hardest moments. You remind me that I wasn't alone. Even when I felt isolated, without you, I wouldn't be standing here today. I am so grateful for the support, love, and patience. It truly means everything to me. I love and appreciate you guys more than I can say. Virginia, thank you for never giving up on me. After all the breakdowns and complaining I did in your office, you still didn't just encourage me from the sidelines. You stood by my side and step by step help me through me. Help me turn my hopes into real plans and my ideas into a future I can be proud of. Rabbi Stern, you didn't just teach me. You didn't just teach me. Your class opened doors in times that I didn't know existed. You helped me connect to Hashem in ways that truly changed my heart and mind. You gave me guidance and showed me how to grow spiritually. I'm grateful your for your patience, your wisdom, and your unwavering kindness through these years. Even though I know you might not be thrilled about me moving to Italy for next year, I want you to know that I'm taking everything you've taught me with me. Your lessons, your examples, and your impact will be with me wherever I go. I have no doubt that all lessons I've learned from you will help me stay grounded and strong in my spirituality. And lastly, thanks for making this year possible for me in the first place. Dr. Templer, thank you for starting the school and believing in B in what BCA stands for. Without you, none of us would be standing here today. I want to give a special thank you to Sakari Wallerstein, the founder of BCA. His vision created a place where students like me and my classmates could find hope, healing, and purpose. I'm so thankful to be a part of his legacy. I'm not nervous about what comes next because I know I'm walking forward with everything BCA gave me. The people, the lessons, the memories, they're all coming with me. Some days she walks in with a gourmet breakfast. Other days she's searching for food that's not left over from yesterday. Vagy is a presence no matter where she is. I encouraged Vie's father to buy her a laptop her first year at BCA and then I banned it the following year. Boy, did I hear about it. Fag's brilliance is kept tucked away for when she chooses, but she can't fool us. There is no one more up to date with the the political climate or stock trading than Just don't mention math to her. Fagi is heartfelt and genuine. There is no embellishment or exaggeration of Africaro. What you see on the inside is what's on the outside and vice versa. Thank you for being so real. Fagi, can you please come up and say a few words? Dear friends, family, and fellow graduates, as I sat down to write this, I drew a blank. I cannot think of a single thing to say because where does one even find the words to begin to express what BC is and how much the staff of BCA changes and saves lives. Today is a special day and I'm so grateful to be here. I'd like to take a moment to thank the people who've made me who've made me being here possible. To Dr. Tepler and Rabbi Wallerstein are founders. Thank you for creating this amazing school. Your vision and leadership have shaped our experiences and prepared us for the future. To SC Sadia, SC Wallerstein, and Yaki Elephant, your hard work and love have made a huge difference in our lives. You've gone above and beyond to support us, and we're grateful for your dedication. To our teachers, thank you for showing up every day, even when it was tough. Your patience, kindness, and expertise have helped us grow and learn tremendously. To Rabbi Jingian, your tireless efforts have created a loving and nurturing environment for us to thrive. Your care and commitment to our school are truly inspiring. As we move forward, I want to acknowledge the incredible journey we've shared. We've learned, grown, and supported each other through ups and downs. I'm proud of what we've achieved, and I'm grateful for the friendships and memory memories we've made together. I came to VCA lost, unsure of who I was, and with no idea what to do with myself, and kind of skeptical as to why I was there. After all, I obviously wasn't going to graduate. It just wasn't in the cards for me. Or so I decided. I leave BCA now knowing the kind of person I am, I want to be, and with a sense of direction given to me by the immense love and guidance from the one-of-a-kind BCA staff. Thank you to everyone who's contributed to our journey. Congratulations to the class of 2025. May we continue to inspire and uplift each other as we embark on the new adventure. Our next graduate Our next graduate is one who does not know how to quit. Her demeanor is always pleasant and puts 120% to her schoolwork, caring for her siblings, and most importantly, her own personal care and growth. Mary, you came into school while the year was in progress, was already in progress, and what you've accomplished is outstanding. In the words of Dr. Seuss, "Oh, the things you will do is obvious and apparent in all that you do. You hold your own and you always find a smile in every situation." Mary, please come up and say a few words. As I stand here today, I look back on the journey that has brought me till this moment, and I'm reminded of the challenges I've faced, the obstacles I've overcome, and the growth growth I've experienced. There have been times when the road ahead seemed uncertain, when the way of expectations ran to overwhelm me, and when I doubted my own abilities. But then I found my place, my passion, and my purpose here at BCA. The school has been more than just a place of learning. It's been a family that has supported me, inspired me, and pushed me to reach for excellence. Today as I today as we gather together to celebrate our graduation, I think and reflect of the memories we've made, the lessons we've learned, and the bright future that lies ahead of us. But before I can move on, I'd like to express my heartfelt thanks to Dr. Templer for bringing this family BCA to life and for his enduring support to each and every BCA student. Thank you. Lararsine's legacy is a testament to his boundless compassion and unwavering dedication who would go extraordinarily lengths to support and uplift every individual, particularly the girls at BCA who he touched with his selflessness that knew no bounds. His love for each girl was noticeable, embracing them as if they were his own. They glimpsed into his fiery spirit. There is a video of him proclaiming, "I love you, Hashem. I love you and I'm not afraid to say it. This captures the the essence of his wild enthusiasm and devotion. May Rab Wallerstein's memory continue and inspire to uplift and may his dish level and may his dish be elevated to the levels of taking in the high radiance of Hashem's presence. May his legacy endure and impact be felt for generations to come. Rabbi Jinian. Rabbi Janian isn't just your ordinary rabbi or chaplain in the army, but he's the kind of person who will stop nothing to ensure that we reach our fullest potential. Whether it's in academics, in spirituality, or in life, with a heart of full compassion and a spirit full of energy, Virginiaian has a constant source of support and guidance throughout our high school journey. He's the one who will push us to excel or listen to us when we need someone to talk to and who will celebrate us in our triumphs. Revinian's dedication to his students is unwavering and we're forever grateful for his presence in our lives. Reginian, with all my heart and soul, I thank you for helping me reach this day and for being a source of guidance and inspiration throughout this entire journey to Mrs. Thank you for all your hard work, late nights, and pure dedication and devotion you show towards our school. Your technical work and running the office has really impacted our school like no other person could have. [Applause] [Music] Thank you to Mr. Bianca Alfin and Mrs. Esie Wstein for creating and upkeeping this amazing environment. You make each day and every day you this environment you make every day. All your hard work does not go unnoticed and it's in yours how many lives have changed. To my parents, I want to express my heartful heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support and love. Even though sometimes we didn't see eye to eye, you stood by me and encouraged me to pursue my path. Through the ups and downs of high school, they were my rock, offering guidance, comfort, and strength when I needed it the most. Their unwavering support has meant the world to me and I'm so grateful for the sacrifices they've made to help me reach this milestone. Without them, I would not be standing here today ready to take on the next chapter of my life. Thank you, Aba and Mommy, for believing in me and being my constant source of love and support. I'm also so grateful to my classmates who have been incredible source of love and support too throughout my entire journey. We shared laughter, tears, and countless memories together. I'm and I'm so thankful for the friendships we've formed. Their kindness, encouragement, and camaraderie have made these years truly unforgettable, and I'm honored to share them with you. and every one of you. [Applause] Okay, I don't want to give any a heart for this, but I want to acknowledge how quiet um that left side of the room has been incredible. Now I see you truly can sit in class and focus. Last, but certainly certainly not least, [Music] Little House on the Prairie. That's where our next student comes from. Okay. Really? She's from Lakewood, New Jersey. Harry, Harry, your compassion for all around you, whether it be people, animals, you name it. It is outstanding. A ranch in Texas is where you say you will live. But no matter where you end up, your sincerity will permeate that space. Harry's ability to take personal initiative is a quality that I've seen Perry develop while in BCA. You will take this and excel in life and it will serve you well. Thank you, Perry. Come on up and say a few words. [Music] My phone might die on me, so I might have to wait the rest of it. But today, as I stand before you, I feel the weight of this moment. A moment that is both an end and a beginning. I want to begin by thanking all the people who made this journey possible for me. First of all, thank you to Hashem for every breath, every moment of strength and blessing he has placed in my path. To Rabbi Jin, your office was a place I can come to with anything I need. Thank you for your vision and your faith in each one of us. To my teachers, thank you for your endless patience and wisdom, for seeing beyond our mistakes and helping us find our true potential. Thank you Dr. Tucker for funding this school this school all through the years. We really really appreciate it. Thank you for everything you do behind the scenes and for building the school together with your husband Shalom. Thank you for all the hard work you put in to make this school still stand. And of course, thank you to the one who made this all possible and started this, Rabbi Wallerstein. Thank you for your effort and hard work. This would not be here today without your work. When I was younger, I used to listen to your speeches. Never would have I thought I would land in your very own school. To my family, thank you for your unwavering love and support. To my mother, thank you for always being there for me. No matter what I was going through, you gave your heart every day. to never give up. Thank you to my father for being here for me and for everything you pos and for giving me everything you possibly have. And more thank you to my siblings always greeting me with a smile, showing me all your love and support. Thank you, Mrs. Drummond, for being an unwavering rock in my life and supporting me through every challenge I ever ever faced. I was only here for one year, but in that short amount of time, you made me feel like this was my home. I came here not knowing what to expect and I found a place where I was welcome, where I was believed in, and where I was encouraged to be the best version of myself. As I looked towards the future, which was really bittersweet, I carry with me all the love and guidance you all have given me. Thank you, SD Sia, for making this school be what it is. It would not keep running without you. [Applause] I will remember this place not just as a school but as a home that saw me how to stand that taught me how to stand tall, grow my roots and continue on in life. Thank you. Just to go through from here on now, we are about to call up each of the graduates to receive their diplomas. They'll turn you back from there. It's actually before we get there after we do hear after we do give students their diplomas we're to hear from from the elephant and I do have a few closing remarks to share at the very end just when I keep you all posted. Mr. Savia, will you please come up and join me giving out the diplomas. Come on up. Perry, will you please come on up? Let's hear for Perry. Figy, come on up. Figy, what's up, Piggy? Rory, come on up. Rory, you're going to give it to me. [Applause] Hey, come on up, Faith. [Applause] Mary, come on up, Mary, and get your diploma. You're welcome to take that up. And last but not least, Grace, come on up. I don't know how to say that. Okay, graduates. We are almost there. We are almost there. Again, a short message from Elephant. And from there, my closing remarks. Elephant, will you please come on up? What you see in his hand is something more than a bouquet of flowers. It's nobody. [Music] [Applause] Thank you to my partner DVO for the flower all year, the flowers, the charcoal. Really appreciate it. [Applause] Thank you everyone for coming and part of this amazing beautiful Simla. We all know that when the Sim family, the previous generations come down to be part of the Sim, participate in the Sim, and although sometimes we don't see it, we can feel it. Tonight I truly believe that is here with us celebrating and so proud of each and one of you for graduating and making it this far. Mr. Wian, these girls are your family as well. And you're here and I can tell you the amount of time, work, effort, and dedication is immeasurable. Thank you. Everything you do for BCA, for ANAVA, it's noticed and appreciated. I'd like to take a moment to thank the most amazing staff any school can ever have or wish for. Dr. Johnson and the entire staff. I'm not going to mention everybody name by name at the beginning did a great job but know we feel the same way and we really really truly appreciate all the work time and effort you guys put in and would often say that if you take care of his children Hashem will take care of yours. So my to to you all you teachers and administration is keep taking care of Hashem's children and he will take care of yourselves. One person that was not mentioned specifically by name [Applause] in the last three years I've had to make a lot of decisions that I was not necessarily equipped to make but I had Mr. Austin, Yankee Rosenberg, Charlie Row, they had a lot of support in helping me guard and guide us and make the right decisions. One decision that was made three years ago, I was never felt more comfortable with joined us and we never had to look back on that decision. And like we know behind every great man is an even greater woman and to Mrs. Junior, the two of you have dedicated your life to our Lord. You opened your hearts, you opened your home, and you dedicated yourself to them. Thank you very much. I'm going to miss you. You've done You've added so much over the years to the school. You've guarded the girls. We made sure they were well taken care of. We truly wish you a lot of welcome and well touch on the next chapter of your life. We still part of family. Unfortunately, Dr. Mr. Temple couldn't be here this year. Clearly is a highlight of his year. He constantly tells me that. But one of the principles while being lived by Sakara Sat. So I feel obligated to continue that and thank the Templars for all that they do. Since day one, Dr. Mr. Tupler had been a part of the school and a lot of people didn't necessarily agree with the law in opening this school and thinking it was nothing more than a pipe dream. Dr. Kepler immediately stepped up and immediately came through and he's been there ever since. So hopefully you'll hear about this and you'll check up and so thank you. We really really appreciate it. Last I just want to thank my my wife Lisa and my children always being so supportive and let me enjoy. I'm not in school every day. I come Fridays talk to them and find out what's going on. But so much more goes on in school than what the public knows about the shones, the trips, the actual classes that happen. But so much more of it there's lessons there. And sometimes I don't even think the girls realize and recognize the lessons that they get they're getting until later they hey remember I was taught this and this. I'm going to use this skill. I'm going to use that. Well, Mrs. They told me to go to all the teachers might have told me and taught us but it's there. Those lessons stick those are life lessons. Those and they stick and they're in there somewhere and they do come out. My final message to our graduates and to I think it's something we all can use. Hashem created the world so that we have an opportunity to get closer to him. That's it. That's why we go day by day. Our goal is simple to get close to one of the ways we do that is by having challenges. He gives us hashem gave for example hashem gave 10 tests. He didn't do that because he can't even say the words that he was bored. He did that so could grow and be one of the forefathers of the Jewish nation. They kept testing him and each test Hashem one got closer to Hashem. Hashem gave us all everyone all the almost everyone in this room has their all our girls have tests have five and challenges and it's not so much even if you pass or fail that challenge. continuing on and using that challenge, like I said, to grow close and using that opportunity, build a bond with one. But one thing we learned is one of the best ways to conquer the challenge, to get through it, and to move on from it, sometimes we need support. We need other people in our lives to help us. Because remember that you have those people in your life. And when a challenge arises and a challenge will arise because Hashem truly truly loves you. Lean on those people. Lean on your friends. Lean on the other girls of B in BCA. Lean on the staff of BCA. We're here for you. Even though tonight you're graduating BCA, you may be graduating BCA building, but you're not graduating BCA family. So use those teachers. Use U use them. call them, hound them, bother them, but let them help you accomplish what you need to accomplish. And as I I just my final message to the girls I sent at his last graduation and and this first I'll repeat it sent over a story about a king. The king was wondering why are Jewish children so special? So he spent time and he devised a test and he called in 20 Jewish kids and 20 non-Jewish kids into a room and in that room he had a long table 10 seats on each side. He asked the Jewish children to go outside non-Jewish children and front at each seat there was a bowl of soup. Each child was asked to sit down and handed a five foot spoon. Long long spoon. He said each one of you has to empty the bowl in front of you using this 5ft spoon. Now we can all imagine you can't use a 5ft spoon to feed yourself. And he walked out and he went to a window to see what's going on. And we just saw hecticness that there's such a the food was everywhere except in the kids' mouth was on the floors, on the tables, on the walls, but they no longer able to find a way to get the food into their mouth. Time few minutes went by. He comes back in and he sees and he realized he says, "Thank you guys. You do." Now he calls him, cleans the room up, calls them the same 20 Jewish children and places them same seat, same arrangement, 10 10 on each side, tells them they have to do finish the bowl, clean the bowl without spilling and pass the test and walks out, goes to his window and he sees amazing. Each kid took their 5ft spoon, reached across to the child across from them and fed them the spoon. Not one drop spilled. Not one drop on the floor. Total the bowls up empty. And he's he's just amazed. How did these kids think of that? It's a brilliant idea. How did they come up with that? And he called the the town's rabbi and said, told him what happened. Said, "How do these kids know how to do that?" And Robert said, "Very simple. Jewish children are trained by nature to support your friends, to support the community, to be there for each other. So my bra is to all of you sitting here, you you're all special, but you be there learn to be there for other people and that'll better your life and it'll better their life. Again, m to all the graduates. We look forward to watching you grow and continue to make have an amazing life. Thank you. [Applause] [Music] Closing remarks. I began speaking about Benot Kaya Academy BCA. And I want to close with the same message. Benot Kaya Academy. We see this word appearing a number of times in Tanakh of course by Sara definitely where it starts. We see it as well in Mish where the Ni says this is Von is taking out her notebook. It's a good sign taking notes. It says that whenever it's referring to it's not necessarily referring to life. It's actually referring to happiness. This is why The para is called kayara teaching us that although it is the time of her death her burial a life of infertility a life of difficulty turbulence kidnapping as well having a child at a young age it was all kay her demeanor never changed it was always one of happiness even throughout times of challenge and difficulty something very difficult to do I don't believe this is a coincidence that our school not only named after someone named Haya. But we are Ben Kaya Academy. Ben Kha Academy. Our dear graduates, never forget us, but most importantly, never forget yourselves. We are extremely proud of every one of you. Look forward to seeing the greatness, the the life coming out, the happiness from each and every single one of you. Ladies and gentlemen, I give you the graduating class of 2025. your hand. [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music]