The sound of bagpipes resonated throughout the ESM Jr.-Sr. High School campus as faculty, the board of education and the Class of 2025 processed down the walkway and onto the field for the 22nd annual commencement exercises on June 27. The evening honored the collective accomplishments of 269 seniors during one of the most important and memorable milestones of their lives.
Upon the graduates taking their places, Student Council Class President Kate Keesee led the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a stellar performance of the national anthem by Kaylin Marra.
Board of Education President Jeffrey Goldhammer welcomed the Class of 2025 and encouraged them to carry with them the values that have guided their education: a commitment to learning, respect for others and the drive to keep growing. “Your future is yours to shape,” Mr. Goldhammer said. “Step into it with confidence, knowing your journey is just beginning and your greatest moments still lie ahead.”
Class President Madalena Hiotis noted that the seniors have had an “I can’t wait” way of thought. “We did not get to this point of success by wishing time would move faster but instead by making memories with each other,” she said. She also encouraged her peers “to live in the present moment, embrace change and be spontaneous.”
Salutatorian Camryn Warsaw shared her belief that the ability to show up on days that we don’t want to live in all her peers. “The important part of acknowledging that we’ve all thought about giving up on something….is that we didn’t give up,” Camryn said. “We all chose to persevere…and that commitment and dedication is illustrated by the fact that you’re sitting here today.”
Valedictorian Amanda Seligman encouraged her peers to “run your own race,” a piece of advice bestowed by her mother. “Don’t measure your success by how perfectly things go,” Amanda said. “Measure it by how much you show up for yourself when your plans ultimately derail.”
Principal Salvatore Alaimo also recognized 52 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. “I hope you will reflect on the challenges you faced and realize that although it was a demanding journey, the circumstances you encountered in the past few years have imparted upon you invaluable skills that will transcend your entire lifetime,” Mr. Alaimo said.
Superintendent of Schools Joseph A. Steimel also started a new tradition of presenting a Challenge Coin to those entering the military. He also presented a coin to veterans and board trustees David Samartino and Joseph Sammarco.
“We salute your courage, your commitment, and your selflessness. Your decision embodies the highest ideals of service and patriotism,” Mr. Steimel said. “You carry with you the hopes and gratitude of our entire community. We are immensely proud of each of you, and we will watch with anticipation as you contribute to the strength and security of our nation.”
Prior to handing out the diplomas, Mr. Steimel addressed the graduates with the message to carry the spirit of ESM with them when they face obstacles. “As we mark this momentous occasion, a day filled with joy, reflection, and anticipation, I want us to take a moment to look back before we swim forward,” Mr. Steimel told the graduates. “While the future beckons with endless possibilities, never forget the foundation that has shaped you. This school, with its halls echoing with laughter and learning, your dedicated teachers, and the vibrant Eastport-South Manor community have provided the bedrock for who you are today. And, of course, your families – their unwavering love, sacrifices, and the values instilled in you are the invisible threads that will always connect you to your truest self. Carry these memories and lessons with you, for they are the compass that will guide you through any storm….. And hey, don't worry too much about what the future holds – just remember, it's a big ocean out there, and you are all about to become very well-fed sharks!”
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 2025 on this milestone accomplishment and extends best wishes for success as the class embarks on new journeys.
Click here to view the Congratulations to the Class of 2025 slideshow.
Date Added: 7/1/2025