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Grads Look Forward Toward the Future

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The Class of 2018 celebrated their graduation on June 21, as well as their experiences in Islip that have helped them get to this pivotal point in their lives.

After a processional, along with “Pomp and Circumstance,” which was performed by the Islip High School Wind Ensemble and Concert Band, Morgiana McDevitt performed an amazing rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” After Principal Michael Mosca welcomed students, staff and visitors to the festivities, valedictorian Julia Horman spoke to her classmates. She congratulated them on the wonderful story they’ve written, but said that they were all ready to move forward.

“It’s time to turn the page, and move forward with our successes,” Horman said. “Thank you for this adventure, and I can’t wait to hear about the new ones all of you create!”

After some inspirational words from Board of Education President Brian Clock and Principal Michael Mosca, salutatorian Madeline Marconi gave advice to her classmates while quoting “The Great Gatsby,” but also paid tribute to her teachers and family.

“To be standing here on this stage today is only one of the many fruits of our efforts throughout these past four years,” Marconi said. “However, I believe that my classmates will concur with me in saying that we could not have traversed this far without the immense support of our families, as well as the hard work and dedication of our teachers.”

This year’s graduation was bittersweet for Susan Schnebel, as this was her final graduation as superintendent. She was honored with a surprise honorary diploma for her contributions and dedication to the Islip School District.

“Class of 2018, develop your own compass and trust it,” Schnebel said. “Take risks, dare to fail and put civility, kindness and character first.”