2 days ago
Three young adults are honored at Bridge to Adulthood ceremony
WESTFIELD — Family and friends from Westfield High School's transition program came out to Shaker Farms Country Club on June 9 for a meal to celebrate three young adults during the 2025 'Bridge to Adulthood.' The ceremony recognizes the young adults who have turned 22 in 2025 and are leaving the Westfield Public School system.
Carolyn Busiere, lead teacher, said the three honorees, Julia Bardakova, Javian Headley and Logan Sanford, have been on a journey in the school system and entered the transition program to further work on life skills, community investment, self advocacy, work training and college; turning challenges into strengths, interests and vision while developing true character. 'You have displayed hard work, determination and resilience,' she told them.
Busiere talked about the 'village' of people present at the dinner, including peer mentors, Unified Sports and Special Olympics friends and teammates, and service providers who have been an integral part of their lives.
'I would like to acknowledge some very special people, that is the parents and families that have supported you in your journey thus far. Being a parent is hard work, there is no playbook to guide us. However, having a son/daughter with special needs brings on challenges and sometimes the fear of the unknown. You have supported, loved, advocated all of these years,' Busiere said.
'Please know how well respected you are and we celebrate you tonight as well. It has been an honor to work with you during a portion of this time. Your support and encouragement have meant the world,' she added.
'As we look to the future, I am filled with hope and optimism for you Julia, Javian and Logan. You have demonstrated that your individual differences are your greatest strengths. You will truly make a positive impact on this world. Keep smiling,' Busiere said.
After dinner, each of the honorees were brought up individually for recognition, beginning with Julia Bardakova, who said her birthday was the following day, on June 10.
Westfield High School Principal Charles Jendrysik, who came forward to speak about Julia, first congratulated all three. 'This is one of my favorite nights of the year. I am unbelievably happy and proud of our people and our school,' he said.
'Julia is an amazing young woman. She can sometimes be a little shy, but can light up a room. She is silly, serious, funny, thoughtful, friendly and outgoing. Someone everyone likes and respects. She is kind and generous,' Jendrysik said.
He listed some of her achievements, including completing an internship at Chrissy G's Bakery and classes at Westfield State University, where she recently graduated from the Massachusetts Inclusive Post Secondary Education Program. He said she hopes to eventually get a job in the WSU Dining Commons. Other supervisors said she plans to get involved in the Post-22 Program at WSU for classes of interest and internships.
'Julia uplifts everyone. She has been involved in transition services, Best Buddies, Unified Track and Basketball, and can throw the javelin farther than me,' Jendrysik said, adding, 'Thank you for being a leader, kind and thoughtful.'
Paraprofessional Rozz Little spoke about Javian Headley, who stood with a big smile. 'This is a bittersweet day as we celebrate a special milestone — Javian ages out of our transition program, and steps confidently into the next chapter of his life,' Little said.
Talking about the many opportunities for growth in the program, Little said Javian has built many social connections, explored new environments, and taken on different challenges and responsibility with courage and determination. 'Javian has shown us what it means to just be yourself. He enjoyed sharing the latest celebrity gossip, internet memes, video games news, and a little bit of dark humor.'
'You've reminded us that success looks different for everyone, and that every step forward — no matter how big or small — matters. Although the transition program chapter is closing, your journey is just beginning. You're never alone — we'll always be cheering you on. Congratulations Javian! We can't wait to see what bizarre adventure you go on next,' Little said.
Luis Burgos said to Logan Sanford, 'Today is about you—and the journey you're stepping into. Moving into adulthood is a big transition for anyone. But for you, Logan, it may come with unique challenges, questions, and moments of doubt. And yet, I want you to hear this clearly: you are ready to take those next steps and tackle those obstacles head on.
'You don't need to compare your path to anyone else's. Adulthood isn't a race or a set of fixed rules — it's a personal journey. Your challenges are not a limitation on your future; it's a part of your story, your strength, and your perspective,' Burgos said.
He talked about Logan's big personality, his love for taking pictures, being active in sports, and going out to eat, all staples in his character traits. 'You have so much to offer to those around you. It's a pleasure to have been able to be a part of your journey to adulthood. The memories we have made with you will remain with us forever, and we hope you will cherish your memories with us,' Burgos said, adding, 'So take pride in who you are, in how far you've come, and in everything you will become. This is your time. Own it.'
Later, Busiere spoke about Logan's father Jim Sanford, who has been the Unified Sports coach at Westfield High School, and said next year he will continue at WHS as coach and Logan will be the equipment manager for Unified Basketball. Jim Sanford is also a coach for the Westfield-area Special Olympics basketball team.
'Jim is a strong supporter of the program and students with special needs,' Busiere said.
Julia and Logan will also continue their involvement in Best Buddies Citizens for ages 18 to adulthood, fostering friendships and participating in community activities, Busiere said.
Read the original article on MassLive.
