It was an evening of excitement and pride as the graduating Class of 2015 marched onto the junior high school field to the playing of “Pomp and Circumstance” by the high school band and the applause of parents and family. After opening remarks by Principal Dr. Ellice Vassallo and the band’s performance of the national anthem and “God Bless America,” Class President Geovanny Amaya welcomed the community to the annual commencement exercises and thanked friends, family and faculty for their support throughout high school.

In her salutatory address, Melissa Riback told her peers that by adopting principles of success, using good management skills and putting forth effort, they would certainly be successful. Valedictorian Winnie Wong imparted to her fellow classmates that “passion is just as important as knowledge” and “the only person I have to impress is myself.” She also encouraged them to find their own definition of success.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Yiendhy Farrelly said the graduates had brought great pride to the district with their myriad of accomplishments and thanked the community, Board of Education and faculty for their commitment to education. She advised students that “life is what you make of it” and encouraged them to set goals, stay focused, learn from mistakes and reflect. Board President Lucy Campasano told the graduates that the community and district are indebted to them, stating, “You are the reason we strive to be better.” In her closing remarks, Dr. Vassallo noted that the graduates had brought great joy to the community and are well-prepared to make their way in the world.   

In celebration of the occasion, the concert choir performed a medley, arranged by teacher Joseph Barone, that included melodies from “Ain’t It Fun,” “Hakuna Matata” and “Why We Tell the Story.” As a tradition, the community joined the band and choir as they performed “Like an Eagle.”
The graduates were then called one by one to receive their diplomas and become official alumni of the West Babylon School District. The district extends its best wishes for success to the Class of 2015.