Manasquan High School Graduates

As hundreds of friends, family and community members looked on, the Manasquan High School Class of 2011 graduated on Tuesday evening.

Graduates packed the school gymnasium to bid a final farewell to teachers, administrators and each other, collect their diplomas and prepare for life's next step.

"Take your time and enjoy the little things life has to offer," Student Council President James Gallagher advised his fellow graduates during his opening remarks.

Yearbook Editor Torri Lyn Jaime struck upon this year's yearbook theme, Six Degrees of Separation, explaining the tight-knit nature of the school community.

"The unique bond we hold for each other and to MHS will forever be written in our yearbook and in our hearts," she said. 

Salutatorian Katherine Quinn encouraged her classmates to get out and embrace new experiences, explaining that "every person is a new door to a different world."

The Class of 2011 will undoubtedly hold a special place in the hearts of two school administrators.

Manasquan High School Principal Rick Coppola and Manasquan Schools Superintendent Geraldine Margin both started their respective positions during the Class of 2011's freshman year.

"I could not have asked for a better first freshman class," Coppola said.

"I've learned that anything is possible when you have faith in the person standing beside you," he added.

Highlighting the academic achievements of the class, Coppola noted that the graduates had the highest scores in Manasquan High School history for the High School Proficiency Assessment (HSPA). They also ranked first in Monmouth County in Language Arts.

"Wherever you go," Coppola said, "you'll always be warriors."

Margin highlighted another staggering achievement by the Class of 2011.

The students earned more than $3.3 million in scholarships and, a credit to the area community, more than $160,000 came from local sources.

"All of us are immensely proud of their accomplishments," Margin told attendees.

Margin related advice to the graduating seniors.

"You leave an emotional wake with the people you come in contact with," she said. "Make sure your wake is a positive one." 

"I wish you all very fulfilling and healthy lives," she added.