With members of the Board of Education, administrators, teachers, elected officials, family and friends in attendance, the high school's Class of 2018 graduated during the 125th commencement ceremony held at Hofstra University on June 27.
The ceremony opened with the presentation of colors by the NJROTC, followed by remarkable renditions of the national anthem and "God Bless America" by the high school's Select Chorale. Prior to the announcement of graduates' names and the ceremonial distribution of diplomas, several speakers, including Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kishore Kuncham, Principal Joseph Mille, Assistant Principal Wendy Haise, Class of 2018 president Krystel Chombo, valedictorian Joseph LaRocca and salutatorian Zoe Stetson, delivered moving and memorable speeches to the graduating class.
Dr. Kuncham congratulated the Class of 2018 and spoke to the graduates about the importance of discovering their purpose. "We are proud of your accomplishments and who you have become today," Dr. Kuncham said. "On this new journey, ask yourself, 'What is my purpose? What is my song? What is my mantra?' Graduates, each one of you is special, unrivaled and exclusive. You are absolutely unique in this entire universe. Let your inner voice, purpose in life and uniqueness guide you, enrich you and enlighten you forever."
Mille reflected on the memories created with the graduating class during his first year as principal of Freeport High School. "The bonds we have created can never be broken and the memories will last a lifetime," Mille said. "When I think about what your essence was as a class, it was always standing up for what is right and challenging the norms. I am proud of who you have become."
Chombo, Stetson and LaRocca spoke to their fellow graduates about the American dream, the contributions of family and friends, and valuable life lessons to remember. "A sea of smiling faces is before me because we are graduating high school," Chombo said. "Our future is filled with opportunity; that sounds like the American dream. This is why we are all sitting here today and this is what we all have in common: the desire to work hard for a better future, a future for ourselves and future generations."
"I have met so many amazing people and been able to form so many friendships with people I never expected to," Stetson said. "I have formed friendships with people that have made my high school experience truly unforgettable. I'm proud of all of you. We have accomplished so much."
"There are so many possible directions you can go, but you should do what you want to do," LaRocca said. "Try and enjoy your life. Stay goal-oriented, make good impressions and meet a lot of people. When you know what you're doing, it shows. Be aware, ask questions and don't move on to the next task until you've finished with the first. Life is short, so if you want to be living the dream, you can't waste time."
Following the distribution of diplomas, the high school's Class of 2018 turned the tassels on their caps from right to left and looked ahead, prepared for the bright futures that await them.
