Ed. Note: Patch would like to extend a heart felt congratulations to all of the graduating seniors of Bayside High School's Class of 2011. Enjoy the moment – you've certainly earned it!
It was a time for celebration Friday morning as the graduates of Bayside High School's 2011 class marched down the aisle and accepted their diplomas.
"This really is just the greatest feeling in the world – knowing all that hard work has finally paid off," said Salutorian Christian Ramirez, who plans to study molecular biology this fall at Harvard University.
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Probably just as excited as the graduates were the proud parents who filled the bleachers of Carnesecca Arena at St. John's University.
"I'm just so proud of my daughter," said Stephen Radow, adding, "Way to go Gabriella!"
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And while the students at Friday's graduation ceremony had much to celebrate, perhaps no one was prouder of the achievements of this year's graduating class more than the teachers of Bayside High School.
"They're all just an amazing group of kids with such a bright future ahead of all of them," said Latin teacher Maria Giannopoulos.
But Giannopoulos wasn't the only one looking to the future.
"I honestly can't wait until our 10-year reunion and coming back here to see all the many accomplishments of my peers," Ramirez said.