The Town of Wallkill’s monthly board meeting on Feb. 22, 2024, was one with special meaning for our Circleville Middle School family. Our very own eighth grade student, Destiny Howell-Bueti, was honored with the Lifesaving Merit Award for using her skills in CPR to save a life. George Serrano, Town of Wallkill Supervisor, flanked by other board members, Town of Wallkill Police Chief Robert Hertman, Officer Stephanie Ruberto, CVMS SRO Ganesh Bhagwandeen, numerous other Town of Wallkill Police Officers, and Destiny’s family members all stood with her to honor her as she received this award.
In August of 2023, Destiny attended the Town of Wallkill Junior Police Academy. While a cadet in this program, she participated in activities including drill lessons, physical fitness, character and safety lessons, guest lectures, crime scene investigation, court procedures and tour, team building exercises, CPR and first aid training, as well as other skills necessary for exemplary police officers, to name a few. As a result, when Destiny encountered someone who needed CPR, she was quick to act and knew exactly what to do. She saved this person’s life.
“My biggest takeaway is the Junior Police Academy taught me how to save a life,” said Destiny. “I loved learning from Officer Ruberto and Officer Bhags. It was a great experience.” When asked by CVMS Principal Lisa Hankinson if a career as a police officer or other first responder was in her future, she said, “I am not sure yet, but I think so. I want to attend more sessions at the Junior Police Academy this summer.”
Officer Ruberto, who put together the program, thanked the town for bringing this Junior Police Academy back, not only for teaching life-saving skills, but also to teach the kids how to work as a team and to appreciate their community.
“This lets them get to know us (officers),” said Officer Ruberto. “We are grateful to have this opportunity and thank everyone for their support of this program..”
Destiny and Principal Hankinson hugged after Destiny received her award and was returning to her seat.
“I was so nervous, but I did it,” Destiny said. Mrs. Hankinson commented, “Here is this amazing young adolescent who did something that most adults couldn’t do, and she was nervous about being recognized for such an incredible feat!”
Mrs. Hankinson has the highest praise for Destiny, not just for her recent heroic action but for the person she is.
“Thank you Destiny for being a student to emulate,” Mrs. Hankinson said. “Your act of courage does not go unnoticed. Our entire CVMS school community congratulates you on this prestigious award and supports you in all of your future endeavors. Thank you to the Town of Wallkill, Town of Wallkill Police, and the Orange County Youth Coalition for providing wonderful programs like the Town of Wallkill Junior Police Academy for our children. They are our future and we look to them to make our world a better place.”