Seaford High School Sends Off The Class Of 2018

“Seaford Pride” was evident everywhere, from the green and white balloon arch to the alumni guest speakers at Seaford High School’s 61st annual commencement exercises on June 24 at Nassau Community College.

The 178 graduates from the class of 2018 were recognized for the knowledge they have acquired since kindergarten and their many achievements during the past 13 years.

“We have a wonderful class in front of us,” said keynote speaker Erin King Sweeney, a 1991 graduate of Seaford High School and a Town of Hempstead councilwoman. She beamed with pride about a community that produces good, solid, loyal and patriotic people, and asked graduates to come back and share their talents and energy.

“You’re getting a diploma from what I believe to be the best school on Long Island,” added State Sen. John Brooks, a member of the class of 1968. “You are prepared for the future. May you enjoy great success in your life ahead.”

Principal Scott Bersin reflected on a “great year” at Seaford High School, which included a Long Island championship for the varsity football team, a fabulous production of “The Wedding Singer” by the drama club and numerous individual accolades. He told graduates that the people in attendance — families, friends and teachers — have done so much for them, so the best way to thank them would be to “pay it forward.”

Valedictorian Jordan Ament encouraged his fellow graduates to use their voices to spread positive messages of love, acceptance and inclusion, and to speak out for what’s right. He took a moment to thank those who have had a major impact on the lives of the graduating seniors.

“Teaching is one of the most underappreciated professions,” he said. “All of the teachers made a difference in our lives.”

Salutatorian Annalore LaGrassa said that freshman year felt like a lifetime ago, yet high school went by “in the blink of an eye.” She reflected upon the special bonds she and her classmates made with each other and their teachers, the passions and values they discovered, and the lifetime memories they created together. Going forward, she encouraged her fellow graduates to “surround yourself with people who will believe in you.”

As its gift, the senior class president created a $250 scholarship for a member of the class of 2019 who best exhibits Seaford pride. Several special awards and scholarships were also presented.

Assistant Principals Jennifer Bisulca and Nicole Schnabel, and Student Council co-adviser Shari Raduazzo, announced each graduate along with his or her clubs and post-high school plans. The ceremony ended with green and white caps tossed into the air.

Photos courtesy Seaford School District