The Eastport-South Manor Class of 2026 entered the stadium to the sound of bagpipes and cheers as they processed onto the field for the 23rd annual commencement ceremony on June 26.
Upon the graduates taking their places, senior Gabriella Couch led the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a beautiful rendition of the national anthem by Abigail White.
High School Principal Salvatore Alaimo welcomed those in attendance, and thanked the many staff members and community members who collectively have supported the graduating class on their journey through high school. “We stand on a campus that is a testament to what a community can achieve when it dares to dream big for its children,” he said.
“Now the tide is turning, sharks, and it’s time to swim out into deeper waters. Whether the current takes you to a college, into a new career, or into the service of our military, do not fear the depth of the ocean ahead. You have been tested, shaped and prepared by everyone in this community.”
Board of Education President Jeffrey Goldhammer then addressed the students and recognized the remarkable resilience they have shown during a unique school career.
“You have demonstrated resilience, determination and maturity in ways that many classes before never had to,” said Mr. Goldhammer. “You learned how to adjust, how to persevere and how to move forward when circumstances were difficult and unfamiliar. As you move forward, I want to leave you with this: Be resilient, you already know how. Be kind, people remember how you make them feel. Be courageous, take chances even when the path feels uncertain. Embrace hard work, humility and perseverance, knowing that meaningful success is rarely immediate, but will be built steadily over time. Never underestimate the power of hard work, character and treating others with respect.”
Class President Violet Rooney then addressed her fellow seniors and spoke to what a special group they are. “I think what most of us do not realize is how much we have all inspired each other,” she said. “In speaking for myself, I have spent the last four years in awe of what everyone has accomplished.”
Salutatorian Michell Zheng spoke about the impact of the pandemic and world events on their trajectory, and how important it is to focus on the possibilities that lie ahead.
“Graduation opens many doors. The air genuinely feels dense with possibility,” he said.
“We didn’t choose this window of history,” added Zheng. “We didn’t get a vote on timing; but it’s ours, and the task isn’t now to mourn the simpler world we never received, but to stay deliberately, stubbornly open to what this one is actually offering.”
Valedictorian Andrew Santangelo spoke to peers about continuing to grow beyond their time at Eastport-South Manor. “Growth can surely be measured in a variety of ways, but I think the most important for what we will all have to face is that of acceptance. Learning not only who you are, but coming to understand yourself more than anything. Grow your understanding of yourself and use it to become even greater,” he said.
Assistant Principal Daniel Franchese also recognized the members of the district’s Century Club, as well as coaches, unsung heroes, and teachers and friends who pushed the graduates to be better. Also congratulated were students who received the Seal of Biliteracy and the Seal of Civic Readiness.
Superintendent of Schools Joseph A. Steimel also continued the tradition of presenting a Challenge Coin to those entering the military for the second consecutive year.
“We also wish to give a special recognition to our graduates who have made a profound decision to serve our nation by entering the United States Military,” he said.
Prior to handing out the diplomas, Mr. Steimel addressed the graduates with the message to continue embodying the attributes of a shark in their next chapters.
“Like a shark, you have spent circling the hallways and successfully swimming through the choppy waters of high school. As you leave our calm waters today, remember to keep moving forward like a shark, stay hungry for success, and please, try not to bite anyone in the real world,” he said, to laughter from the crowd.
After the final diploma was received, the new graduates threw their caps and exited the field as alumni of the Eastport-South Manor Central School District. The district congratulates the Class of 2026 on this milestone accomplishment and extends best wishes for success as the class embarks on new journeys.
Click here to view the Congratulations Class of 2026 slideshow.