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The boys, Jonell Rios Losado and Jay Tapia Morquecho, were each named Students of Distinction, with the honors shared at a Bedford Central school board meeting.
The pair joined The Walden School in the middle of the last school year, according to Principal Michael Sowul. The Walden School is among several of BOCES' special-education offerings.
Linda Batto, who is Jay's teacher, noted the progress that he has made in several areas and praised him for his sense of humor.
“He's made notable improvements in his math, reading, speech and social skills," she said. "He enjoys school and it's apparent with his smile every morning when he comes into class and says 'Hi, Ms. Linda!'”
Jay was also described as someone eager to handle math problems and as a student with kindness and warmth.
Michelle Gonzalez-Delgado, who has been Jonell's teacher since September, noted her student's recent progress.
"He has shown marked improvement in both social skills and academics," she said. "He's increased his time on task and is more frequently using coping strategies when he becomes frustrated. My team and I look forward in supporting Jonell as he continues to grow and develop.”
The students concluded their visit by exchanging high fives with school board members and district administrators.
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