Irvington High School Celebrates Class Of 2018

IRVINGTON, NY — Standing before friends, family, teachers and administrators, members of Irvington High School’s Class of 2018 celebrated their accomplishments and the completion of their secondary school experience during their commencement ceremony, held at Matthiessen Park June 16. The ceremony began with the school’s band performing “Pomp and Circumstance” for the processional and continued with a performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

Principal David Cohen welcomed the guests and honorees and praised the students for their achievements throughout their high school career and their ability to advocate for themselves, their peers and those who are less fortunate. He encouraged them to continue to find the courage to question society, trust their hearts and advocate for what they believe in.

“As you prepare to leave the friendly confines of Irvington, know that your advocacy, your professionalism and your demands for positive change can and will make a difference,” Cohen said. “I believe in each member of the Class of 2018. You are the leaders of today and the hope for a better tomorrow.”

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kristopher Harrison said the graduates have demonstrated strong leadership by setting a positive tone within the school community and as role models for other students. He encouraged them to continue to be good listeners and communicators, and to be open-minded, demonstrate empathy, speak up for themselves and stand up for what they believe is ethical to paint the picture of a brighter tomorrow.

“Graduates, while attending college or beginning a career, remember that the world has given you the charge of caring for our future,” Dr. Harrison told the students. “To this end, I hope you will take your responsibility seriously, and I know that if you do, the world will be in good hands.”

Students were also addressed by Board of Education President Michael Hanna, as well as their class president Kelly Degnan, before hearing from salutatorian Kristin Lee, who reflected on the last four years of high school, acknowledged the numerous accomplishments of the Class of 2018 and looked forward to the exciting journey on which she and her classmates are about to embark.

“Throughout high school, we have grown as learners, as thinkers, as individuals, and we will continue to do so in the future,” Lee said.

Valedictorian Rachel Sklar reflected on the educational journey she and her classmates have been on since they walked through the green doors of Dows Lane Elementary School.

“If we live life to the fullest and prioritize what is important, we will come out of each chapter of our lives knowing that we did all we could to make the most of our time,” Sklar said. “But living life to the fullest can take many forms. Though often interpreted as ‘eat, sleep and be merry,’ taking advantage of life does not mean constant fun and games. It also means pursuing fields that are fulfilling and enjoyable and working hard to achieve personal goals.”

Then, one by one, the students crossed the stage and received their diplomas. After moving their tassels to indicate their graduation, they tossed their caps in celebration.

Photo caption: Irvington High School’s Class of 2018 celebrated their commencement ceremony at Matthiessen Park on June 16. Photo credit: Irvington Union Free School District.