by Paul Tennant, Eagle Tribune
Less than two years ago, Jeranny Geraldo arrived in the United States from the Dominican Republic, unable to speak a word of English.
Friday evening she gave a speech before more than 6,000 people at the Lawrence High School graduation, which took place at Veterans Memorial Stadium. The bleachers were packed.
She thanked the teachers in the International High School who helped her gain proficiency in her new language.
Geraldo delivered the honor essay and was seated on the platform with the two valedictorians, Elvianna DeJesus and Chabeli Garcia, as well as dignitaries including Mayor Daniel Rivera, Superintendent Cynthia Paris, Headmaster Michael Fiato and state Reps. Marcos Devers and Frank Moran.
"We are not alone. We can support each other," she told her fellow graduates. "Don't forget the beautiful moments we have shared.