Eighth graders at Lynbrook North and South middle schools reached the next chapter of their educational careers on June 24 as they moved up to high school.

On the South Middle School rear field, families looked on with pride as graduates stepped toward their seats. Samantha Podlaski led the Pledge of Allegiance, and the eighth grade chorus led a performance that included “Star Spangled Banner.” Principal Kaitlin GaNun reflected on the group of students which she named as one of her favorites.

“As principal, I have had the privilege of watching many groups of students grow and move through our hallways,” Mrs. GaNun said. “You are all very personable, bright, cheerful, funny and refreshingly down to earth.”

Various awards were given to students before South Valedictorian Sienna Mainhart and Salutatorian Nicole Stimac addressed their peers.

“Although things were difficult, they helped us become stronger and prepare us for high school,” Mainhart said. “Over these years, we’ve learned how to overcome obstacles and keep trying when things were difficult.”

On the North Middle School football field, Livia Cavanagh and Lily Elena opened the ceremony by leading the flag salute and national anthem. Principal Marianne Healy posed a question for graduates: “What would you do if you knew you could not fail?”

“The truth is, failure isn’t something to fear – it’s something to learn from,” Mrs. Healy said. “Every successful person you admire has stumbled along the way.”

Rebecca Wolk addressed her peers and quoted a poem from the book, “The Outsiders.”

“It reminds us that new beginnings can happen quickly and it teaches us to appreciate each moment while it lasts,” Wolk said. “We should always be grateful for our time here at North and the lessons that have shaped who we are.”

Each graduate stood to accept their diploma from trustees, marking them graduates of middle school and Lynbrook High School’s official Class of 2030.

 

Photos courtesy Lynbrook Public Schools