News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 16, 2026

MAYOR MAMDANI, NYC PUBLIC SCHOOLS AND NYC CORRECTION DEPARTMENT CELEBRATE EAST RIVER ACADEMY’S CLASS OF 2026

The Department has Focused on Developing Access to Learning Opportunities by Expanding Classroom Space, Expanding GED Testing Sites and Developing Remote Learning Curricula Via Tablet Based Instruction.

57 Graduates Received Their Diplomas or GEDs Through the 2026 Academic Year.

EAST ELMHURST, NY— Mayor Zohran K. Mamdani, the New York City Department of Correction (DOC) and NYC Public Schools’ (NYCPS) East River Academy today celebrate 57 graduates who earned their high school diplomas or GEDs.

"I am honored to celebrate today’s graduates and the determination that brought them to this milestone,” said Mayor Mamdani. “Many of today’s graduates arrived on Rikers facing profound uncertainty about what lay ahead. Instead of allowing that uncertainty to define them, they chose to invest in themselves and their futures. Their achievements are a testament to their resilience, perseverance and belief that every person deserves the opportunity to learn. Our administration is proud to celebrate this moment and the hard work that made it possible.”

“The most profound life changes often start with an education,” said NYC Department of Correction Commissioner Stanley Richards. “A degree represents knowledge, commitment, self-investment, and, most of all, permission to begin imagining a new future for oneself. Congratulations to our graduates and their families. The best is yet to come.”

“Our school system is built on a simple belief: every student deserves the opportunity to succeed,” said Schools Chancellor Kamar H. Samuels. “I’m honored to celebrate today’s graduates who have worked hard to reach this milestone and should be incredibly proud of all they have accomplished. As they write this new important chapter into their stories, the resilience, determination, and achievement on display today reflect the very best of what our students can accomplish when given the opportunity to learn and grow. Congratulations East River Academy class of 2026!”

“Through innovative learning models, expanded programming, and a strong commitment to mentorship, District 79 continues to create an environment where education serves as a pathway to personal growth, dignity, and rehabilitation,” said NYCPS Superintendent Glenda Esperance. “The success of this graduating class reflects the impact of collaboration between NYC Public Schools and the Department of Correction, demonstrating how literacy, learning, and opportunity can open doors to brighter futures. As we celebrate these graduates, we reaffirm our commitment to breaking down barriers, expanding opportunities, and ensuring every student has the support needed to succeed. Education remains a powerful source of hope, transformation, and possibility for all students.”

The graduation ceremony was held at the Robert N. Davoren Center (R.N.D.C.). This year’s ceremony will honor people who actively engaged in educational programming while residing at George R. Vierno Center (G.R.V.C.), Rose M. Singer Center (R.M.S.C.) and R.N.D.C.

The graduates include many emergent adults, aged 18-21, as well as six adult learners. Many of the students said they were inspired to continue their education by their peers.

The Educational Services Unit, part of the Department’s Division of Programs and Community Partnerships, has played a pivotal role in expanding access to learning opportunities.

Key advancements this year include:

Continued expansion of classroom space, which allowed every young adult housing area to have access to educational services.
In addition to the Supplemental Education contract with The Petey Greene Program, the NYDCOC continues to financially support the NYCPS in expanding the provision of services by sharing the cost of per-session instruction, which provided additional access to educational services during the evening (after school hours).
Worked with NYCPS and our tablet vendor to develop asynchronous remote instruction via the tablets of people in custody.
Supported NYCPS to develop an adult GED testing site at OBCC.

Additional changes made by NYC Public Schools and DOC this academic year include recognition of milestone achievements, which build confidence and motivation; peer-to-peer academic support; assistance with post-graduation planning for continuing education or job readiness and access to programs, including pathways to higher education.

This annual graduation ceremony serves as a reminder of the transformative power of education and the commitment of NYC Correction and NYC Public Schools to fostering personal growth, opportunity, and second chances. Through a partnership with Columbia University, students will have the opportunity to further their education by earning college credits.

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The New York City Department of Correction (DOC) is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment while providing individuals in our care with a path to successfully re-enter their communities.

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About New York City Public Schools: New York City Public Schools is a testament to the history and impact of urban education in the United States. With over 1,600 schools spread across five boroughs, the system is made up of approximately 1.1 million students and staff, making it the largest public school system in the nation. These schools employ more than 75,000 teachers who deliver a rich tapestry of educational experiences to a student body that reflects the city's vibrant and diverse cultural heritage. This network of educational institutions represents not just the scale of New York City's commitment to public education, but also its dedication to fostering a learning environment that is as dynamic and diverse as the city itself.