It was all red, white and blue at BLaST's annual Independence Day Parade on Wednesday. Students, teachers and loved ones gathered at Donald E. Schick Elementary School in Montoursville. The extended school year program serves students with disabilities in Bradford, Lycoming, Sullivan and Tioga counties.
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Before the parade, budding weather forecaster 18-year-old Michael Duprey of Williamsport read the forecast for the week.
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BLaST students descend to the track to begin the parade. BLaST’s Extended School Year program serves students with disabilities by continuing education once the school year ends. This educational tool prevents students from losing basic skills and having to regain them once the school year resumes.
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Four-year-old Lulu Cipriani of Williamsport released bubbles to cheer on Nicki Myers, her six-year-old cousin also of Williamsport, who marched in the parade.
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The crowd included people of all ages at Donald E. Schick Elementary.
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Students and staff crafted banners and decorations to celebrate Independence Day.
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More than 200 people showed up to wave flags and encourage parade participants, according to organizers.
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BLaST aims to transform lives and communities through educational services.
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Students with disabilities are the focus of BLaST’s educational programs in Bradford, Lycoming, Sullivan and Tioga counties. The students Wednesday all hailed from Lycoming County.
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About 180 students marched in the parade along with 90 BLaST staff members.
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Family and friends waved and cheered for parade participants from the bleachers, fences and interior of the track.
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Each BLaST class dressed in red, white and blue and crafted signs for the parade.
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This year’s BLaST parade took place under blue skies with plenty of sunshine.
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