Wantagh Sends Off The Class Of 2018

The Wantagh School District’s 63rd annual commencement exercises returned to Lawrence Field on June 21, as 247 graduates processed to their seats as the high school band, under the baton of assistant band director Danilo Aviles, played “Pomp and Circumstance.”

After a presentation of colors by Zachary Moussa, Bryan Murphy and Samuel Sloves and a flag salute by General Organization co-presidents Anna Browne, Katherine Gifford and Olivia Zukowski, senior student conductors Nancy Ambrosio, Matthew Hanauer and Karen Kawecki led the band for the last time during the playing of the national anthem.

High School Principal Carolyn Breivogel extended a warm welcome to the class of 2018 and their guests and told the graduates that they have been “true Warriors” in their academic strengths and extracurricular endeavors. “Take the lessons learned here and do amazing things,” she said.

Superintendent of Schools John C. McNamara reminded the graduates that as they leave Wantagh, their “canvas is again blank.” He added, “Paint a beautiful picture of your life. This is your time, your moment. Make the district proud.” Board of Education President Kera McLoughlin said she has confidence in the direction of the world based on the character of the graduates. “I’ve seen you kids these days, and I see hope. I don’t worry about the future.”

Wantagh Dollars for Scholars Scholarship Fund President Gerald McCrink then presented graduates Anna Browne, Samantha Cashton, Roxana Cardoza, Katherine Gifford, Matthew Hanauer, Michael Hennig, Nina Inayan, Emily Kalinoglu, Julianna King, Benjamin Schablin, Sarah Valvo, Kyleigh Watson and Olivia Zukowski with scholarships, thus continuing the tradition of honoring educational achievement.

Salutatorian Olivia Zukowski then took the podium and encouraged peers to “use their passion to find their own path,” while valedictorian Michael Hennig challenged the graduates “to not get caught up in the little things,” but “to enjoy making memories."

After McNamara and McLoughlin certified that the seniors had met the standards for graduation, the graduates were called to the podium to receive their diplomas, marking their becoming alumni of the Wantagh School District. The board of education, administration and faculty extend best wishes of happiness and success to the Class of 2018.

Photos, courtesy of the Wantagh School District

1. It was a day of celebration as 247 Wantagh High School seniors graduated from Wantagh High School during the 63rd annual commencement exercises.
   
2. Wantagh High School salutatorian Olivia Zukowski and valedictorian Michael Hennig delivered words of wisdom to the Class of 2018.
   
3. From left, Wantagh High School General Organization co-presidents Olivia Zukowski, Katherine Gifford and Anna Browne led the graduates and their families in the Pledge of Allegiance during the 63rd commencement exercises.
   
4. Wantagh Dollars for Scholars Scholarship Fund President presented 13 scholarships to deserving graduates during the high school’s 63rd commencement exercises.
   
5. Wantagh High School Principal Carolyn Breivogel gave one last hug to graduate Jenna DaSilva during the school’s 63rd commencement exercises.
   
6. From left, Wantagh seniors Kyleigh Watson, Lyndsay Whiteman, Emily Williamson and Patrick Williz waited to receive their diplomas during the school’s commencement.