The Freeport High School graduating class of 2013 gathered as a unit one last time at Hofstra University's Davis S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex to perform their commencement exercises in front of family members, teachers, administrators and others who have inspired and supported them to achieve their goals.
"Class of 2013, congratulations to you on your exceptional success," lauded Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kishore Kuncham. Referencing the impact of super storm Sandy on Freeport families, Kuncham reminded the students that "Like waves come and go, storms in your life will come and then subside. Storms are inevitable in life. Be with the storms" he told them. "Every storm touches you and makes you grow stronger." He encouraged the class of 2013 to "…be fearless, be with the storms, realize your uniqueness, soak in knowledge, be in this moment and be all you can be."
Musical features of the program included several pieces by the Freeport High School Symphonic Orchestra, under the direction of Jill Boardman, highlighted by their rousing performance of Gioacchino Rossini's "William Tell Overture." On the opposite side of the stage, the select chorale, directed by Monique Retzlaff, energized the arena with songs such as Jonathan Larson's "Seasons of Love" from the Broadway show "Rent."
The student speeches in the program generated enthusiastic applause, laughter and sighs of nostalgia.
"We have accomplished much and will achieve more in the future," said Class President Chelsea Campbell, who is heading to Albright College in the fall.
"Freeport High School has taught us many things that we will take with us into the real world, " noted valedictorian Elizabeth Mulé, whose speech concluded with a special tribute to her family - including her mother, Board of Education President Debra Mulé, and her 100-year-old great-grandmother, who was also in attendance. Elizabeth will continue her academic career at Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
"These last few years have been challenging for us all, but you kept us grounded," said salutatorian Bianca Molina in a special thank-you to her mother, Bayview Avenue School Assistant Principal Alma Rocha. Bianca will attend the University of Pennsylvania come September.
"In the 12 years you have attended Freeport Public Schools, you have achieved many awards, accolades and championships, and we are so proud of you," said Principal Linda Carter. "This is a beginning to your life as an adult. Use what you have learned to attain your goals and dreams." Ms. Carter was later joined by Dr. Kuncham and Debra Mulé to preside over the certification of the graduates.
At the conclusion of the commencement, the 120th in the long history of Freeport High School, the graduates marked their final moments as high school students with a burst of flying caps and tassels from their hands before continuing their celebration with family and friends.
