The sun shined on the Bethpage Athletic Complex on the evening of June 25 as Bethpage High School honored the Class of 2021 at the school’s 66th annual commencement ceremony. The district was able to welcome all students and their families to one celebration, a welcome return to normalcy after a school year like no other.
(Photo courtesy of the Bethpage School District)
The evening began with the graduates processing onto the field to the sound of “Pomp and Circumstance,” performed by the Bethpage High School band. The students were joined by members of central and building administration, the board of education and faculty and staff.
(Photo courtesy of the Bethpage School District)
Student addresses were then underway, with Senior Class President Isabella Downes and Student Council President Emanuella Tsouros addressing their fellow graduates. Then, Pawan Pitiranggon and Bonnie Stern delivered meaningful and encouraging salutatory and valedictory addresses, respectively.
(Photo courtesy of the Bethpage School District)
“Wherever we are going after this ceremony finishes, it is my sincere hope that none of us forget about the relationships we made here,” salutatorian Pawan said.
(Photo courtesy of the Bethpage School District)
“As we leave our comfortable Bethpage bubble, it is crucial that we can converse with each other,” valedictorian Bonnie said. “We will probably never agree on everything, but respect for one another is key.”
(Photo courtesy of the Bethpage School District)
Next, Superintendent of Schools Dave Schneider delivered commencement remarks to the graduates and their families. He reiterated his gratitude for the Class of 2021 for persevering through an incredibly difficult past 15 months.
“The Class of 2021 has demonstrated a deep commitment to their community,” he said. “This year, more than ever, you served as role models inside our buildings and community to ensure our schools stayed open.”
(Photo courtesy of the Bethpage School District)
Principal Nicholas Jantz reflected on how his time in Bethpage began with the graduates at John F. Kennedy Middle School. He reflected on the years of memories, successes and challenges he faced alongside the Class of 2021, commenting on their dedication to perseverance.
“One thing about this amazing group is that they’ve always done things their own way, they are trailblazers,” he said. “This class has always been all in and full of school spirit since the beginning.”
(Photo courtesy of the Bethpage School District)
Following the presentation of diplomas, Jantz officially pronounced the Class of 2021 graduates. The ceremonial cap toss put a perfect ending on not only the evening, but the years of education for the graduates in Bethpage.
-Submitted by the Bethpage School District
