Glen Cove High School seniors marked the end of their high school careers surrounded by family members, administrators, teachers and friends at their commencement ceremony on June 26.
The high school band played “Pomp and Circumstance” as the Class of 2019 processed onto J.C. Maiden Field. Seniors and co-class presidents Lucy Costello and Aamaiyah Vaughan led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance, which was followed by the by the school’s concert choir singing the national anthem. The group also performed the school’s alma mater, conducted by senior Julianna Willson.
Principal Antonio Santana told the graduating class how much he would miss them, as they began at the high school the same year he did. He also explained that success is not measured by material items.
“Please remember success is not measured in things we accumulate, by cars, jewelry and money,” Mr. Santana said. “It is measured in the worth we have as individuals and in our communities. It’s not a function of income or fame, it’s not labels or titles. Success is measured in good deeds. It’s about the power we all have to make positive change and enhance just not only our lives, but the lives of people that matter to us and the people in our communities.”
Mr. Santana also recognized student Derek Cosme, who was killed in 2017, saying, “I know you are here with us today, and I know that you can feel the love we have for you.”
Superintendent of Schools Dr. Maria Rianna told students their families will always be their greatest supporters and reminded them that their families, teachers, principal and she realize how special they are.
“Each of you have a gift that only you can give the world,” Dr. Rianna said. “You may not fully realize what that gift is yet or how you might use it in the future, but you will. In the next few years, you will discover so much and have so much more to explore. Now is the time that the real work begins.”
Board of Education President Gail Nedbor-Gross told the seniors that they have come a long way in Glen Cove schools and to think of their time in the district like building a house.
“You’ve now successfully completed building the foundation,” Ms. Nedbor-Gross said. “From here, you’ll continue to build a life and hopefully have many, many more accomplishments.”
Salutatorian Mackenzie Edwards reflected on change and acknowledged that while change has an impact on our lives, some things stay the same.
“Our foundation is made up of our memories, our family and our friends,” she said. “It is what we have achieved in this school and in this life. It is ours forever.”
Honorarian Christina Cavallone reminded students that although high school was over, the imprints they made at Glen Cove High School would stay with them for the rest of their lives.
Each year, the graduating class selects a faculty member to speak. Security guard Michael Curran was chosen and told students it was a pleasure to watch them grow over the past four years. Mr. Curran’s speech, which was met with cheers and applause, was peppered with jokes, much to the delight of students.
Valedictorian Matthew Tran said he realized that his classmates may have mixed feelings about leaving high school, but said he was happy.
“I’m happy that we are taking the next steps in our lives and on our way to becoming the young adults we already think we are. Even though we are leaving high school, Glen Cove will always have a special place in our hearts.”
The ceremony continued with each student receiving their diplomas. It concluded with the tassel ceremony and the tossing of the caps. Congratulations!
Click here to watch GCTV's coverage of the 2019 Commencement Ceremony.