Blackwater Community School sees 51 Students Promote

June 2, 2023

Emma Hughes

Gila River Indian News

The Blackwater Community School (BWCS) held its Kindergarten promotion ceremony on Tuesday, May 23.  In total, the school saw 51 students promoted.

The event began with BWCS color guard Rose River and Michelle Tashquinth posting the flags, followed by a welcome from BWCS principal Jagdish “Jack” Sharma, vice-principal Misty Lopez, and the Blackwater Community School Board.

During the ceremony, BWCS teachers Ms. Cox, Mrs. Pruzhanovsky, and Mrs. Schlarb presented the promotion certificates to graduating students.

Then on Wednesday, May 24, the school held its fifth-grade promotion ceremony featuring Gila River Indian Community Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis and Lt. Gov. Monica Antone as guest speakers.

BWCS board president Gwendolyn Paul thanked families and students for their hard work and for coming out to celebrate the 32 fifth graders.  Two “Students of the Year,” Heaven Blackwater and Joshua Kewanyama, were recognized along with Chief Azul scholarship recipient Amaya Marquez.

Students walked along the stage to receive certificates and greet the Blackwater Community School Board and GRIC Council Representatives Joey Whitman and Ann Lucas.

BWCS principal Sharma announced that in collaboration with GRIC Council and the school, promoting students were gifted with a special monetary gift of $750 dollars, which is only collected once the student obtains their high school diploma.

Following the promotion ceremonies, the school held a small reception in the courtyard for all students and families to attend.