Ms. Jose was an honorary speaker at this year’s Passaic Optimist Club Youth Appreciation Dinner. (Photo courtesy of the Octagon Club)

By Yakelin Victoriano ‘19

On April 12, a Youth Appreciation dinner was hosted by the Passaic Optimist Club at the Sevilla Restaurant to shine a spotlight on students who have brought about change in Passaic High School clubs and sports. Twenty students were selected to celebrate this heartfelt night with their friends and families to recognize the hard work and dedication they have for their school and community.

The ceremony began with a welcoming speech by the president of the club, Mr. Izaguirre, followed by a flag salute and warm welcomes by the Optimist Club. Before presenting the students being honored, leaders of a local baptist church made a breathtaking speech to commemorate the students’ hard work and to bless the room with positivity.

Students were split into two sessions, one before and one after dinner service, followed by a powerful speech about struggle and upcomings, determination and success, by PHS graduate and current English teacher, Ms.Janely Jose.

Ms. Jose’s speech moved everyone and brought forth a few tears. She shared her story, her struggles and her accomplishments so that we, the students, don’t give up and keep our heads high because “someone is always rooting for you.”

After all of the speeches, stories and memories were shared, Mr. Izaguirre closed the ceremony with motivating remarks and a special recitation of the Optimists’ Creed.