Wantagh High School Sends Off The Class Of 2017

Gray skies did not dampen the spirits of the class of 2017 who celebrated a long-awaited milestone during the Wantagh School District’s 62nd annual commencement exercises held in the school gymnasium on June 23. The board of education, administration and faculty led the 281 graduates down the aisle and to their seats as the high school band, under the baton of Mindy Dragovich, played "Pomp and Circumstance."

After a salute to the flag by General Organization Co-President Francesca Sielaw, student conductors Elizabeth Goldrick, Dylan Hubert and Brittany Minutoli led the high school band for the last time during the playing of the national anthem.

Wantagh High School Principal Carolyn Breivogel extended a warm welcome to the graduates and their guests and reminded the students, "Your character and name are your most prized possessions." During her remarks, Superintendent of Schools Maureen Goldberg used the metaphor of a ball of yarn to depict the milestones and twists the graduates and their parents will experience.

"The greatest twist is the unraveling of the line into the real world," she said. She also urged the students to cherish family and friendships made during high school and to remember how blessed their lives have been.

Board president Anthony Greco told the graduates that he is confident they have the knowledge and skills to compete. "You can do anything you desire, as long as you stick to your goals," he said.

Senior class co-presidents Katherine Goldrick and Julia Kiefer reflected on high school memories and noted the enthusiasm and togetherness of the Class of 2017. Wantagh Foundation for Educational Excellence Executive Director Ralph Spagnolo and Wantagh Dollars for Scholars president Gerald McCrink then presented select seniors with scholarships.

Salutatorian T.J. Sullivan took the podium and spoke about how his volunteerism at Camp ANCHOR has inspired him. He quoted the Camp ANCHOR theme, "To the world you might be one person, but to one person you might be the world." He also noted, "You don’t need to be a celebrity or a superhero to make a difference."

Valedictorian Grace Sullivan spoke about adversity’s drive to success and how feelings can be a momentous force in a person’s decisions. "We have all doubted ourselves during times of adversity," she said. "The actions you take in the presence of adversity will define you as a person."

Photos: Wantagh School District