As storm clouds began to roll in over the football field at Marion Street Elementary School, the 226 members of Lynbrook High School’s Class of 2018 did not let that ruin their big milestone occasion; celebrating their time at Lynbrook High School with their commencement ceremony on June 22. Family and friends filled the stands while central administrators, board of education members and faculty watched as the graduates made their way to their seats to “Pomp and Circumstance,” performed by the high school concert band and directed by Brian White.

Principal Joseph Rainis introduced salutatorian Jack Hunter to the podium to reflect on his high school career and address his fellow graduates. Hunter, proud Class Night chairperson who spearheaded the seniors Class Night victory this year with their theme “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse,” centered his four lessons around Disney to fit the occasion. Valedictorian Dustin Mandell followed with pride for his graduating class and offered encouragement. 

“My fellow graduates, we have the skills, tools and now freedom to go out and do what we love,” he said. “Let’s follow our passions and make life worthwhile.” 

Focusing on the many accomplishments that the Class of 2018 has achieved during their years at LHS, Rainis listed the positive impacts that the graduates left on the school. He also discussed the meaning of time and how quickly it passes, encouraging the graduates to embrace every second. 

“Your time is now,” he said. “As you leave Lynbrook you have the opportunity to create, to persuade and to change your communities and with it, the world we live in.” 

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Melissa Burak also spoke about how proud she was of the graduates and the positive mark that they made in the high school; from embracing the district’s 2017-18 theme “Where Tomorrow Begins Today,” to the various charitable efforts that the students have participated in during their years at LHS.

“Lynbrook was only your foundation,” she said. “The choices you make and paths you take from here on will be your most decisive. Class of 2018, continue to be driven, continue to care about others, continue to speak up to be a positive change agent.” 

As each graduate’s name was called, the board of education proudly presented them with their diploma as Dr. Burak also congratulated them on a job well done. The rain held off just in time as all the graduates were recognized. Before the conclusion of the ceremony, Rainis asked all the LHS alumni in the stands to rise as he then asked the Class of 2018 to do the same and join their fellow alumni. The graduates tossed their green caps high, ready to take on the future and all that is holds.