Blue skies and ample sunshine were the order of the day as East Meadow and Clarke High Schools’ graduating seniors gathered to celebrate the culmination of four years together in their respective schools and to begin the next stage on their journey through life.
East Meadow High School’s graduation highlights included a performance of “The Star Spangled Banner” and “Give Me Wings,” sung by members of the Senior Chorale, and signed by students in American Sign Language (ASL), a welcome by Principal Richard Howard, and greetings by Superintendent of Schools Louis R. DeAngelo and Board of Education President Brian O’Flaherty. In addition, Class President Jimmy Egan, Valedictorian Neha Sahni, and Salutatorian Domenika Swieboda each delivered moving speeches for their fellow graduates. Before conferring the diplomas, Mr. Howard delivered words of advice, concluding with, “To the graduating seniors, you are a unique group of people. Congratulations, Class of 2011!”
At Clarke High School’s commencement ceremony, Assistant Principal Richard Lagattolla delivered welcoming remarks and introductions, Valedictorian Jennifer Meade led the Salute to the Flag, which was also signed by ASL 5H students, Henry Morrow sang the national anthem, and the Senior Chorus performed the school’s alma mater. Valedictorian Jennifer Meade and Salutatorian Daniel Taylor each fondly recounted their years spent at Clarke High School and wished their fellow graduates congratulations. Principal Timothy Voels presented the senior class and concluded by stating, “Wherever you go, go with all of your heart,” adding a quote by Dr. Seuss, “Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.”
Both Mr. Howard and Mr. Voels honored outgoing Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Lynne Manouvrier with a special diploma and wished her well on her retirement. Superintendent of Schools Louis R. DeAngelo told the graduating classes at both schools, “The people who make the most difference in life are not the ones with the most money or the most awards. The people who make the most difference in life are the ones who care. Congratulations to each of you, your parents, family and friends.”
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