The Freeport High School graduating class of 2012 filled Mack Arena at Hofstra University with the buzz of excitement, the energy of anticipation, the enthusiasm for the future and the warmth of unity for their commencement exercise.
After encouraging the graduates to acknowledge their families, teachers, administrators and others who have inspired and supported them to achieve their goals, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kishore Kuncham proclaimed, "Class of 2012, this is your night." He advised the graduates to remember the acronym F-O-C-U-S and what it stands for. He explained that "F is for Fearless; O is for Opportunity; C is for Commitment; U is for Unique and S is for Stillness or Silence." He continued "Be fearless, manufacture opportunities, renew your commitment, realize your uniqueness and dive into your inner world for moments of stillness and silence every day. Whatever you do, let it reach your heart and let your heart reach your action. Have the courage to take risks. Go where there are no guarantees. Get out of your comfort zone, even if it means being uncomfortable." He added, "I wish you all a wonderful and exciting adventure ahead of you."
To the cheers and applause of students, family and friends, Dr. Kuncham noted that this graduating class had raised the bar for those who follow in scholarship awards, and that nearly 100 colleges and universities will be welcoming the newest Freeport graduates this coming September.
The Freeport High School Symphonic Orchestra performed several numbers under the direction of Jill Boardman, including a toe-tapping rendition of Duke Ellington's "It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing)." On the opposite side of the stage, the select chorale, directed and accompanied by Monique Retzlaff, filled the arena with sweet harmonies on songs such as Stephen Schwartz's "For Good."
"We are a beautiful family. We are going to change the world and give back to our Freeport community," said Class President Stephanie Morales, who is heading to Virginia Tech on a full scholarship in the fall.
