Class of 2009 Graduates

Students, who were in the "terrible twos" when the phrase "Donna Martin graduates" entered the pop culture lexicon 16 years ago, graduated from high school themselves Monday night.

The over 450 members of the Westfield High School Class of 2009 took their final walk as a class during a poignant ceremony at the Westfield Armory. Led by Danielle Zamarelli, class president, and Daniel Dickstein, student council president, the class remembered their high school years as they received their diplomas.

"This is the last time all 450 of us gather in the place we call home," Zamarelli said in her speech, where she recalled funny anecdotes from the shared memories that bind the graduating class together.

Dickstein also spoke about many of the memories the class shared during their time together. He invoked memories dating back to elementary school for some classmates. The outgoing student council president also asked his classmates to thank several people in the crowd.

"Each of us should thank our parents, our teachers, our siblings and everyone who helped us," Dickstein said.

High School Principal Peter Renwick echoed Dickstein's call when he recognized the parents for their hard work in helping the graduates. Renwick also praised teachers, administrators and school board members.

The ceremony was held in the armory because of the threat of rain. While the building was bursting at the seams and heat lingered in the air, the graduates' enthusiasm was not dampened. When Ronald Barner, a retiring English teacher who was the commencement speaker, took the podium, graduates cheered while Barner shared life advice with them.

Barner centered his speech around several life skills he wanted to share with the graduates. These included encouraging the students to exhibit passion and love for their lives and careers and to continue to strive and work hard. He also encouraged them to focus on their personal growth along with their professional growth.

"Passion and love are awesome," Barner said. "Love will be your greatest teacher and the best friend you ever made. Find something or someone you love and pursue that love with passion."

After each student got his or her moment in the sun—receiving a diploma from Board of Education President Ginny Leiz and Schools Superintendent Margaret Dolan—the students tossed their caps in the air, celebrating the end of their educational careers in Westfield. Then they headed out into the breezy night air to greet family and friends, take pictures and move into celebrations, including last night's Project Graduation.

"It's an awesome feeling," said Chris Delafuente, moments after graduating. "I've been waiting for this for years."