Elwood-John H. Glenn Class Of 2019 Celebrates Graduation

ELWOOD, NY—On the sunny evening of June 28, the Elwood-John H. Glenn Class of 2019 emerged proudly onto the field for their last act as high school students—graduation, the Elwood Union Free School District announced via press release.

After a warm welcome, Principal Carisa Burzynski praised the graduating class for all they’ve accomplished in the past four years at John H. Glenn, taking an additional moment to commend them for helping the high school earn the National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence Award.

“I can say with confidence that we are all in the presence of true leaders,” Burzynski said of
the Class of 2019, “who are ready to leave John Glenn and make a positive impact on the world.”

Salutatorian Olivia Kelly recalled important lessons learned throughout her time in the school district, including the importance of cherishing a tight sense of community. She urged her classmates to express gratitude to all those that helped them along the way, and to not forget where they came from.

Valedictorian Yeji Lee encouraged her classmates to remember that the lessons they’ve learned
over the past four years will echo throughout the rest of their lives, and to always remember what it meant to belong, be loved and be supported by the Elwood community.

“Our links to this special place are unbreakable and will forever be intertwined with our past
present and futures,” she said. “Use what you’ve learned at John Glenn to approach every challenge or opportunity with open mindedness, integrity and that trademark Blue Ribbon spirit.”

Class of 2019 graduation speaker Nicholas Weiss followed at the podium to reflect on the last four years at John H. Glenn. “At the beginning of our high school career, we had one goal—to make our mark on John Glenn,” he said. “Now, as we leave, we assume a new goal—to make our mark on the world.”

After Burzynski, the board of education and administration confirmed that the seniors had met the requirements for graduation, each student received their diploma. Led by the members of
student council, the seniors signified their commencement by moving their tassels from right to left.

Blue and white caps then filled the air as the graduates were introduced as the newest alumni of the Elwood Union Free School District.