The future is looking bright for seniors in the Class of 2026 who began their educational journeys at Luzerne County Head Start.
During the agency’s 61st Anniversary Luncheon on May 18, 13 students who attended LCHS programs as young children will be awarded Head Start Alumni Scholarships to pursue higher education.
LCHS will award more than $20,000 in scholarships to students from seven high schools in Luzerne and Wyoming counties, bringing the total to $401,725 since the program’s inception. The scholarships are funded entirely by businesses, organizations and individuals in the community. Recipients are selected based on academic performance, personal achievements, leadership, motivation, and school and community involvement.
Continue reading to learn more about this year’s scholarship recipients.
Destiny Gittens
Destiny Gittens, a senior at Wyoming Area Secondary Center, will receive the Fran Williams Memorial Scholarship in the amount of $3,000. Robin Malore and Patricia Swire were her teachers. She plans to pursue her doctorate in pharmacy at Wilkes University.
Destiny said Luzerne County Head Start felt like family to her. She started at the Hazleton Center, then transferred to the Pittston Center when she was placed in foster care. Throughout the entire process, she said LCHS supported both her biological and adoptive families. School was a constant, safe place that provided her with emotional support during a difficult time.
“I would not be who I am today without the Head Start program. Their help shaped the beginning of my life and laid the foundation for the goals that I wanted,” she said. “I want to have an impact on people’s lives the same way Head Start impacted me.”
Paula Cecil, a math teacher at Wyoming Area, said Destiny consistently demonstrates exceptional dedication and a strong academic drive.
“Destiny approaches her studies with focused determination and a positive attitude. She takes initiative in her learning, often going beyond assignments to deepen her understanding,” she said. “Her perseverance and self-motivation set a great example for her classmates, and she consistently produces work of high quality.”
Destiny is a member of the National Honor Society and has been involved with the National Art Honor Society, chorus, Art Club and track and field team. She also serves as volunteer chairperson for the PTO and works part time at Sheetz.
Aiden Grula
Aiden Grula, a senior at Pittston Area High School, will receive the Mary & Tom Sewatsky Family Scholarship in the amount of $2,500. He attended Pre-K Counts at the Oblates of St. Joseph Seminary in Pittston, where Robin Fanelli was his teacher. He plans to study nursing at Wilkes University and become a nurse practitioner.
Aiden said when he got older, he realized how much he had benefited from his early education at Luzerne County Head Start. He especially remembers how his teachers eased his anxiety about coming to school.
“They helped me feel safe and loved, which to this day I don’t forget because it wasn’t the school that helped me find joy in learning,” he said. “It was the teachers like them who had patience with me and made sure I knew everything was going to be okay.”
Amy Saunders, who taught Aiden in Honors English at Pittston Area, described him as an excellent student who enjoys being a member of his school community.
“Every day, Aiden had a smile on his face, made me laugh, worked hard and impressed me with how seriously he took the class,” she said.
Aiden is a member of the Pep Squad, Stand Tall Club, Health and Science Club, Leo Club and National Honor Society. He volunteers for church picnics and helps the elderly. He also works part time at Fox Hill Country Club.
Yahir Contreras
Yahir Contreras, a senior at Wilkes-Barre Area High School, will receive the Tomalis-Gatusky Family Scholarship in the amount of $2,000. He attended Head Start at the Beekman Street Center in Wilkes-Barre, where Sarah Spece was his teacher. Yahir plans to study finance and marketing and eventually continue his education in a Master of Business Administration program.
Yahir said Luzerne County Head Start shaped him in ways he never would have envisioned. Once he started at LCHS, his educational world expanded. He learned early skills and lessons that he would build on throughout his time in school.
“Coming from a low-income family, the best decision that my parents made was to put me in Head Start because without that early education, I would’ve never imagined myself becoming the person who I am today,” he said. “With many accomplishments I have done during all these years of school, I owe a part to the wonderful people of Head Start who taught me when I was just a little kid.”
Yahir is enrolled in the Wilkes-Barre Area Business Academy. He is a member of the Key Club and Future Business Leaders of America. He has also participated in Upward Bound at Wilkes University, Early College at Luzerne County Community College and King’s College Young Scholars. He volunteers with St. Nicholas-St. Mary Parish and is in a co-op internship with Geisinger Dermatology.
Cindy Gavin, guidance counselor at Wilkes-Barre Area, called Yahir an extraordinary student who has gone above and beyond in terms of balancing academics and extracurricular activities.
“Yahir Contreras is a dedicated individual, taking pride in every goal he sets out to achieve,” she said. “He displays a maturity beyond his years and is grateful for every opportunity in front of him.”
Nicole Castillo
Nicole Castillo, a senior at Wilkes-Barre Area High School, will receive the Benco Family Foundation Scholarship in the amount of $2,000. She attended Head Start at the Beekman Street Center in Wilkes-Barre, where Cheryl Ostrowski was her teacher. Nicole plans to pursue her doctorate in pharmacy at Wilkes University.
Nicole credits the influence of Head Start for her academic successes and ambitions. She recalls not knowing English when she entered the program and being provided with the resources she needed to thrive in a classroom setting.
“As a child whose mind was constantly influenced, Head Start provided me with the proper guidance to instill in me the values of a healthy and educational environment,” she said. “As I grew up, I was eternally grateful for my time at Head Start, for it laid the basis over which I would continue to expand upon as I grew.”
Nicole is enrolled in the Wilkes-Barre Area STEM Academy. She serves as senior captain of the swim team and manager for the boys volleyball team. She also plays for the girls volleyball team. Additionally, she volunteers for church food drives, STEM Nights and concession stands at games.
Keith Eberts, engineering instructor for the STEM Academy, said Nicole’s accolades in the classroom speak for themselves, but she also shines in school and community involvement. He added that she is resourceful, motivated and willing to take initiative and meet challenges.
“Nicole is a true example of a model student,” he said.
Ariel Chu
Ariel Chu, a senior at Wyoming Valley West High School, will receive the Cross Valley Federal Credit Union Scholarship in the amount of $2,000. She attended Pre-K Counts at Church of Christ Uniting, where Amy Ellsworth was her teacher. Ariel plans to study mechanical engineering and economics at Brown University.
Ariel said basic lessons at Luzerne County Head Start like learning to raise her hand to speak and sit quietly for storytime taught her how to function in a classroom setting and set a foundation for the rest of her schooling years. She learned that it was fine to make mistakes and started to develop confidence before she even understood what that meant.
“As I progressed through my education, I found that my obstacles had transformed as well. Classes became more rigorous; thus, the pressure increased on me. As a result, at times I experienced doubt in my academic skills and felt misplaced among my peers,” she said. “Fortunately, there were tools I had developed through my participation in Head Start that helped me build a sense of determination, inquiring attitude and faith that learning was continual growth and not the result of talent alone.”
Ariel is involved with the arts at school and in her community, including the marching band, chamber orchestra, jazz band and concert choir at Wyoming Valley West, Wilkes University Chamber Orchestra, Civic Orchestra, Marywood University String Celebration and Northeastern Pennsylvania Chamber Music Society’s Youth Apprenticeship Program.
She serves as captain of the wrestling team and a student ambassador for Upward Bound. She co-founded the Science Olympiad at her school. Ariel has also been involved in ballet and the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science.
Luke Ruseskas, guidance counselor for Wyoming Valley West, said Ariel is always quietly stepping out of her comfort zone to gain new experiences. A moment that stuck with him was seeing Ariel at school early to assist a veteran teacher with flagpole duty. He said the act of volunteering to come early just to help encapsulates Ariel.
“While Chu has a 4.255 GPA, a list of student activities and leadership shockingly overflowing in terms of both quality and quantity and is a standout wrestler on our ceiling shattering varsity girls wrestling team, it is actions like these which define her,” he said. “Not the collegiate internship she attained while in school, not the high-level courses she managed to audit in order to meet the pre-requisite for an even higher-level course, but her proclivity for building healthy connections with faculty, staff and students in order to ensure she is always at the forefront of any movement she feels is important.”
Laila Grayson
Laila Grayson, a senior at Pittston Area High School, will receive the United Way of Wyoming Valley Scholarship in the amount of $1,500. She attended Head Start at the Pittston Center, where Patricia Swire was her teacher. She plans to study biotechnology at Penn State University.
Laila said her educational journey truly began at Luzerne County Head Start. She remembers learning basic skills like following routines and problem solving, but the experience also supported her social and emotional growth.
“The teachers and staff encouraged endless amounts of curiosity and confidence. I was introduced to teamwork and perseverance, qualities which will continue to guide me as I pursue my future career. Head Start laid the groundwork for my dedication to education and growth,” Laila said. “It taught me the value of learning and helped mold my motivation to pursue an impactful career. As I further my educational journey towards becoming a medical laboratory scientist, I carry with me the lessons and encouragement I received through Head Start.”
Laila serves as treasurer of the Stand Tall Club and sergeant at arms for the Student Council. She is also a member of the National Honor Society, Health and Science Club, Math Club and Pep Squad. She works part time at Nonno’s Pizza and Family Restaurant.
Amy Hazlet, a teacher at Pittston Area, called Laila a true representation of the Head Start program’s success.
“Fifteen years later, Laila is the epitome of a successful student. She is a leader both academically and socially within the school community,” she said. “She is kind, caring and a strong young lady. She works hard in her studies and her part-time job outside of school. She holds many leadership positions at school. She is everything that the Head Start program’s goals are for their little developing students.”
Christian Stevens
Christian Stevens, a senior at Tunkhannock Area High School, will receive the Eugene Hogan Memorial Scholarship in the amount of $1,500. He attended Head Start at the Tunkhannock Center, where Sharon Hewitt was his teacher. Christian plans to study secondary education at Millersville University and become a history teacher.
Christian said his aspirations are rooted in a lifelong passion for learning and a commitment to making a meaningful impact on the world. This journey began for him as a preschool student at Luzerne County Head Start.
“Head Start played a pivotal role in my early development, fostering a love for learning and providing a supportive environment where I could explore my interests and develop essential social skills. The program instilled in me a sense of curiosity and a desire to understand the world around me,” he said. “It taught me the importance of collaboration, communication and respect for others – values that have been instrumental in my academic and personal growth. As I transition to college, I carry with me the confidence and self-assurance instilled in me by Head Start, knowing that I have the tools and resources to succeed.”
Ashley Pippenger, a social studies teacher at Tunkhannock Area, said what stands out the most about Christian is his ability to push forward in the face of challenges. He has navigated circumstances that would have discouraged others, but continued to show up, stay engaged and put in the effort, she said.
“I observed consistent personal growth in Christian, particularly during class discussions. At the start of the year, Christian primarily focused his participation on current events,” she said. “Over time, Christian immersed himself and became someone who listened carefully to class comments, asked thoughtful questions and contributed ideas that helped move the conversation forward. That shift didn’t happen by accident; it came from someone willing to challenge himself and take risks.”
She also commented on how volunteering to help with a school-wide mock presidential election demonstrated his leadership abilities.
“The adage ‘give it to someone who is busy, and it will get done’ rings true with Christian, as he balances academics, a job and extracurricular clubs and sports,” she said. “His ability to manage a busy schedule while staying dependable speaks to a level of maturity that will serve him well in any setting.”
Christian serves as captain of the volleyball team and president of Family, Career and Community Leaders of America. He has also performed lead roles in theater productions at school. He is a member of the Youth Advisory Board and volunteers as an acting camp counselor. Additionally, he works part time at CK’s Cantina & Grill.
Jamie Wilczewski
Jamie Wilczewski, a senior at Wyoming Valley West High School, will receive the Luzerne County Head Start Board of Directors Lena Taylor Memorial Scholarship in the amount of $775 and the Church of Christ Uniting Scholarship in the amount of $500. She attended Head Start at the Edwardsville Center, where Susan Cieless and Elizabeth Desiderio were her teachers. Jamie plans to attend the physician assistant program at King’s College.
Jamie said LCHS played an important role in her early development and helped shape her educational journey.
“Through Head Start, I was introduced to a structured learning environment from a young age, which helped me build social skills and a foundation for future academic success,” she said. “Head Start sparked my love for learning and helped me believe in my ability to achieve anything I set my mind to. The foundation built during those early years continues to influence my academic success and my desire to pursue a career focused on helping and caring for others.”
Jamie is involved in the arts at Wyoming Valley West, including chamber orchestra, marching band, concert band, full orchestra, concert choir and theater productions. She also performs with the Wilkes University Chamber Orchestra. She is a member of the track and field team and works part time at the Potato Shack.
Shawn Kelly, guidance counselor for Wyoming Valley West, said Jamie challenges herself in the classroom and has been inducted into the National Honor Society and National Spanish Honor Society. She is also a three-year recipient of the Citizen Award. He applauded her well-rounded portfolio of extracurriculars, community service and part-time employment.
“Jamie is a highly motivated and extremely hardworking individual who combines excellence in the classroom with a variety of activities and responsibilities within the school and local community,” he said. “Jamie recognizes the importance of education as she aspires to have a career in the medical field.”
Angel Sandoval
Angel Sandoval, a senior at Hazleton Area High School, will receive the PNC Bank Scholarship in the amount of $1,000. He participated in Wilkes-Barre Early Head Start, and Sherri was his family educator. Angel plans to study civil engineering and physics at King’s College with the goal of becoming an architect.
Angel attended the SHINE after-school program through Wilkes University in elementary and middle school. Now as a former SHINE student, he guides and inspires younger students in the program as a volunteer teacher’s assistant. He is enrolled in the Hazleton Area Academy of Sciences and has also participated in the Art Club.
Jennifer Curcio, who teaches at SHINE, said Angel’s involvement in the program’s initiatives like STEM Olympiad and College for a Day showcases his passion for enriching the educational experiences of his peers.
“Angel stands out not only for his accomplishments but also for his selfless nature and articulate demeanor, making a significant positive impact on those around him,” she said. “He possesses a genuine desire to help others, and his contributions reflect his character and leadership skills.”
Angel said his experience at Luzerne County Head Start set the foundation for his belief that education is one of the building blocks for a successful life. Head Start helped him develop the skills of collaboration, communication and time management. It also gave him the confidence to try new things and help others while giving back to his community.
“Last year, I had a SHINE student who wanted to follow in my footsteps and become a student volunteer. Head Start inspired me to become a better student and person, and through other programs similar to Head Start, I was able to inspire others like me and share my love of education,” Angel said.
Kody Cox
Kody Cox, a senior at West Side Career & Technology Center, will receive the George & Ann Evans Memorial Scholarship in the amount of $1,000. He attended Head Start at the Wyoming Area Center, where Lynn Meizanis was his teacher.
Kody is enrolled in the child care and support services management program at West Side CTC. He plans to study early childhood education at Kutztown University with the goal of becoming a kindergarten or special education teacher.
Kody said the structured learning, social interaction and supportive adults at Luzerne County Head Start helped prepare him for success in school at a young age.
“Head Start provided me with a safe and encouraging environment that promoted independence, where I began my academic journey and developed a positive view of school,” he said. “Looking back, I can see how important those early experiences were in helping transition into elementary school.”
Kody is an intern at Building Blocks Learning Center and works part time at Carter’s Dairy Freeze. He has also volunteered at Building Blocks and LCHS. Kody said volunteering at Head Start gave him a new perspective on the program, and he hopes to build a career where he can support children’s learning and development in the same way.
Mary Kay Kimelewski, history teacher at West Side CTC, called Kody an ideal student who has demonstrated a strong work ethic and leadership skills.
“The academics in my classes were challenging, and Kody fulfilled all the requirements needed of him. Kody was personable, responsible and hardworking,” she said. “The rate at which he matured in a matter of two years in my courses was immense and memorable. Never did he seem discouraged or overwhelmed by the demands from his academics, vocational program or job outside of school.”
Briana Medina
Briana Medina, a senior at Wilkes-Barre Area High School, will receive the Luzerne County Bar Association Charitable Foundation Scholarship in the amount of $1,000. She attended Pre-K Counts at the Dodson and Heights centers in Wilkes-Barre, where Kelly Chamberlain was her teacher. Briana plans to study architecture at Marywood University and eventually open her own architecture firm.
Briana said Luzerne County Head Start provided more than early education; it was a safe space where she felt supported. When she entered the program, she didn’t speak English, and everything felt strange and different. She said her teacher’s patience and kindness made school no longer feel like a scary place.
“I still remember the strong hug that my teacher, Miss Kelly, once gave me after I was feeling sad,” she said. “It was comforting and warm. I felt heard and loved. I felt understood, even when I couldn’t communicate.”
Along with being the start of her academic journey, Briana said Head Start was the first place where she made friends. She learned how to be respectful, kind and responsible.
“These lessons stayed with me throughout my life. It shaped the way I approach certain situations and even school,” Briana said. “Head Start was and always will be the foundation that helped me succeed as I continued my education.”
Briana is enrolled in the Wilkes-Barre Area STEM Academy. She serves as senior captain of the swim team and is a member of the volleyball team and National Honor Society. She also volunteers at her church for food drives and as a dance leader and Sunday school teacher.
Keith Eberts, engineering instructor for the STEM Academy, called Briana a model student for her academic achievements and involvement in her school and community.
“She demonstrates resourcefulness, a keen sense of responsibility and initiative,” he said. “She is highly motivated and presents a great deal of independence in her thinking. Briana accepts challenges and meets with them a willing disposition. She is enthusiastic and serious in her approach to her studies.”
Joel Tapia
Joel Tapia, a senior at Wilkes-Barre Area High School, will receive the Delaney Family Scholarship in the amount of $500 and the LCHS Policy Council Claudia O’Boyle Memorial Scholarship in the amount of $500. He attended Head Start at the Beekman Street Center in Wilkes-Barre, where Roberto Colin was his teacher. Joel plans to study computer science at Luzerne County Community College with the goal of becoming a software technician.
Joel said Head Start had a strong role in his development, particularly by helping him hone his speaking and social skills. This gave him the confidence to join extracurriculars at school and take courses like public speaking. Joel is a member of the school band and has been involved in the Key Club. He also holds a part-time job.
Amanda Paci, a math teacher at Wilkes-Barre Area, praised Joel for overcoming significant barriers in his academic journey, most notably learning and succeeding in an environment where English is his second language. Beyond the classroom, she said Joel is engaged in his community by volunteering his time to record local musicians and bands, as well as helping his neighbors.
“What stands out most about Joel is his commitment to growth. He sets clear goals for himself and actively works to achieve them, even when the process requires more persistence than it might for others,” she said. “This level of perseverance speaks to his character and maturity, and it is a quality that will serve him well in any academic or professional setting.”
Justin Sosa Garcia
Justin Sosa Garcia, a senior at Wilkes-Barre Area High School, will receive the Pittston Tomato Festival Scholarship in the amount of $500 and the Coombs Family Memorial Scholarship in the amount of $500. He attended Head Start at the Beekman Street Center in Wilkes-Barre, where Holly Sayre was his teacher. Justin plans to study athletic training at King’s College.
He is a longtime member of the football team and works part time at McDonald’s.
Cindy Gavin, guidance counselor at Wilkes-Barre Area, called Justin an enthusiastic student who challenges himself academically. For instance, she said he is taking an upper-level college readiness math course that will allow him to receive college credit. She added that he has displayed determination and dedication through his athletic accomplishments.
“Justin Sosa Garcia is a hardworking individual, taking pride in every goal he sets out to achieve,” she said.
By Brooke Williams, Community Advocate