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Proctor seniors honored: 45 earn New York State Seals of Biliteracy; civic‑readiness seal introduced
Summary
At a Utica City School District board meeting, Thomas R. Proctor High School students received New York State Seals of Biliteracy (45 recipients, two triliteracy) and the district introduced a new Seal of Civic Readiness; students and staff described program requirements and community‑service components.
Thomas R. Proctor High School students were honored Tuesday at a Utica City School District Board of Education meeting, where school leaders presented New York State Seals of Biliteracy and introduced a new Seal of Civic Readiness.
"We celebrate the remarkable achievements of our 45 students who have earned the New York State Seal of Biliteracy," said Nicholas Hahn, co‑coordinator for the seals program, as he described recipients who demonstrated proficiency across languages including Dari, French, Italian, Karen, Pashto, Russian, Spanish, Twi and Ukrainian. Hahn also said two students earned a seal of triliteracy.
The board and school staff introduced the Seal of Civic Readiness as a points‑based recognition for leadership, service and civic engagement. Amy Barak, representing the social studies department, told the board that students earn points through a combination of coursework (including AP U.S. History and MVCC government dual credit), extracurricular activities such as Mock Trial and Model UN, community service and other requirements. "As they move through their high school career, they get points for each section of the grading rubric," Barak said.
Students named during the presentation included Joseph Adams Jr., Hawa Alomahi, Evelyn Campbell, Jason Carrion, Heather Concepcion, Victoria Gomez and Derek Lee; additional recipients were read aloud for the record. The board asked staff to read names more slowly so families could hear each student.
Principal Paladino and board members applauded the students and the media club for producing a video that introduced the school's top 10 seniors. Several students gave short remarks about college plans, extracurricular activities and memorable school moments.
The recognition segment included a bravery award for students who intervened in a water‑rescue incident; students who described the event recounted jumping in to help, performing CPR attempts and alerting adults and police.
No board action was required to present the seals; the presentation concluded with applause and congratulatory remarks from board members. The district asked students who earned the Seal of Civic Readiness to remain after the meeting for photographs and distribution of cords and certificates.
