A unique graduation ceremony for Groton’s homeschooled graduates

A few weeks prior to Groton Jr./Sr. High School’s Class of 2025 graduation, Groton Assembly of God (GAG) church hosted a graduation ceremony for four of its homeschooled graduates.

While Groton has its fair share of homeschooled students, many of whom have earned their diplomas in the past, Autumn Lanzilotta, Brooke Ostrander, Hannah Wright and Bailey Wright — who all attend GAG with their families — comprised GAG’s first-ever graduating class, complete with a unique and meaningful graduation ceremony.

The graduates proceeded into the church sanctuary to “Pomp & Circumstance,” wearing caps and gowns. Then, Pastor Sharon Newman, GAG’s family and children’s pastor, gave a welcome and invocation.

Curriculum varies for homeschooled students, and parents oversee and/or deliver the instruction. In a traditional graduation, there are speeches given by designated students and administrators. For this ceremony, each student and each of their parents gave a speech!

Speeches by graduates and parents

Tony and Amy Lanzilotta spoke fondly of their daughter, Autumn, who graduated from Liberty University Online Academy. Autumn had initially attended Dryden Central School through ninth grade before switching to homeschooling.

“At times, my parents would mention the idea of switching to a private Christian school, which I was on board with, or homeschooling, which I was not so thrilled about,” Autumn said. “During the COVID-19 pandemic in eighth grade, I realized that I was able to be an online student. I have no regrets whatsoever, and I even wish I started sooner. The journey with Liberty University Online Academy has been amazing, as I have been able to have time to read the Word, have less stress with some classes and more flexibility in schedule. I am planning on completing my Bachelor’s in Elementary Education with Liberty University Online.”

Cliff Ostrander, owner of Rednartso Remodeling Inc. in Groton, and his wife, Sara, are Brooke’s parents.

“The process and preparation for this moment has had its struggles and rough patches, but Brooke learned to struggle through, to not give up and to press on,” Cliff said. “She has learned to trust her heavenly father in an intimate, relational way, making her faith her own and not just borrowing ours, and I am so proud of her for not giving up.”

Sara spoke from her heart about her own fears and struggles with homeschooling, yet she noted how grateful she is that she did, stating, “It’s been a privilege to watch you grow into a beautiful young woman, Brooke. Your dad and I are so proud of you. Always seek God first. When you do, you will always succeed.”

“I can’t believe I made it!” Brooke said. “I wouldn’t have gotten here without God. He has been with me every step of the way. I also couldn’t have gotten here without my parents.”

Brooke made touching remarks about her parents and others in her life who have been significant in her journey, and she gave each one a flower.

Joe, worship pastor at GAG, and his wife, Erin, are Hannah and Bailey’s parents. The two students were able to work at their own pace, which allowed the younger Hannah to catch up to Bailey, and they graduated together.

“I want to share how homeschooling has affected my life — majorly” Hannah said. “As early as I can remember, my mom always tried to make learning fun. Another thing that is a plus is the flexibility it allows. I look back on it now and realize that God blessed me and my brother so much. The question I have now is where will I go? I will trust that the Lord will bless me wherever I go.”

“We know that you’re still young, and we know you’ll find your way,” Joe said of Hannah. “Courage isn’t the absence of fear but the ability to stand in the face of it. We love you very much and pray God’s very best for you and your future.”

Bailey told how schooling presented challenges for him in his early years, as he was diagnosed with some learning disabilities.

“Homeschooling provided a constant one-on-one approach for subjects, and I could go at my own pace,” Bailey explained. “The flexibility allowed me to work at a peaceful pace, asking for clarification when needed, which came, because I had patient teachers. My focus for the next season is where or what does the Lord want me to do? I am promised He will direct my steps. I know He is faithful and can be trusted.”

“We very much admire who you’ve become,” Erin said of Bailey. “You’re so very conscientious, wanting to do what is right and well in all you do, even when you’ve been frustrated by school assignments and life’s difficult experiences. You’re a person of good character and have a servant’s heart, and it’s evidenced in the way you interact with people, serve at church and help those in need.”

The rest of the ceremony

After the speeches, the father of each graduate conferred his student’s diploma. The graduates performed the song “The Plans” by We the Kingdom, an inspiring commencement speech was given by GAG apprentice in ministry, Gabbie Kress, tassels were moved, and a benediction was given by GAG youth group leader and apprentice in ministry, Trude Morse.

All present for the event were invited to the adjoining fellowship hall, where each student had a display table of photos and memorabilia that they had put together themselves. The displays were quite impressive, as was the spread of food and refreshments for all to enjoy.

Congratulations to the Class of 2025 Groton Assembly of God homeschooled graduates!

In brief:

Groton Alumni annual picnic

Attention all Groton Central School alumni! The annual reunion picnic will be held Saturday, Aug. 2 at a new venue: Stonehedges Golf Course & Banquet Facility, 549 Stevens Rd. Check-in begins at 1 p.m. The main meal will begin at 2 p.m., with a program to follow at approximately 3:30 p.m. Check your alumni newsletter for a registration form or visit grotonnyalumni.com for contact information.

Ukulele Summer Camp

Perform4Purpose’s Ukulele Summer Camp will take place at the Groton Public Library on Tuesdays from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. July 15 through Aug. 19. Although the camp is primarily for youth aged eight and older, a few spots are available for adults. Participants will receive a free uke and T-shirt and may play in the concert at the end. You must register to participate by emailing Sara at director@grotonpubliclibrary.org.

Groton Big Rig Day

Bring the whole family for a fun-filled outdoor adventure at Groton Recreation’s first-ever Big Rig Day! At the Groton Fire Department from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, July 26, explore a variety of vehicles up close and enjoy treats from the onsite food vendors. Email recreation@grotonny.org if you would like to register a vehicle for the event.