Due to NYC DOE’s system of applying to multiple high schools, one twin from a set leaves to attend Baruch while the other gets an education elsewhere. They have been by each other’s sides their whole lives – is this separation for the better?
Junior Raymond Needhman and his twin brother Jack Needham, who goes to Xavier High School, have had different experiences thanks to attending schools 1.2 miles away from each other.
“I would have to say that the biggest change for me was being seen as your [own] person and not just as a twin,” said Raymond Needham. “I don’t have to be worried about someone calling me Jack or comparing us.”
While these sets of twins are separated during the day, they share a bond at home.
Senior Natale Assaf has a brother named Stefeno Assaf who attends Millennium High School downtown. Their dad, Adel Assaf, noted how going to different schools affects the twins’ relationship positively.
“It allows each child to have an independent life with their group of friends, it also helps each child raise their self-esteem,” he said. “There is also a better chance for the twins to be more connected by less time together at school and working on their relationship at home.”
Senior Kate Romalewski and her brother, Nick Romalewski, also have a connection that is helped by going to different schools.
“It has helped them each develop confidence that otherwise they wouldn’t have had if they needed to rely on each other all the time,” said Hallie Bozzi, their mom.
These twins showcase how individualized education can allow for growth and development. Though they might be separated from their educational journeys, they are still bonded no matter what.
