Congratulations to the ESM Class of 2024

To the sound of bagpipes and the joyous cheers of family, friends and faculty, 287 graduates from Eastport-South Manor Junior-Senior High School’s Class of 2024 processed into the school gymnasium on June 26 for the annual commencement ceremony. The seniors were honored for their collective accomplishments during one of the most important and memorable milestones of their lives.

Upon the graduates taking their places, class vice president Sydney Flores led the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a stellar performance of the national anthem by Jenna Balzano.

Board of Education trustee Jeffrey Goldhammer welcomed the Class of 2024 and encouraged the graduates to hold onto the values of integrity, kindness, and perseverance. All three values have guided them to their success so far. “The path ahead may have twists and turns, but it’s these challenges that will sculpt you into the remarkable individuals you are destined to become,” he said.

Class president Brooke Keitel reflected on the last six years at the junior-senior high school and cautioned that the graduates may feel lost in their next life chapter. “Remember, life is an adventure and will take you on the journey that you are meant to be on,” she said. “You don’t need to have everything figured out.”

Salutatorian Layla Warsaw and valedictorian Ryan Lee then took the stage to address their peers and proffered last words of advice. Layla touched on the importance of the graduates’ filling their future lives with love and passion. “Life is about so much more than success,” Layla said. “A happy life requires a balance of success and a love for what you do.”

Ryan spoke about the importance of welcoming failure and change and working to be better. “Perfection is too rigid of a standard. It doesn’t allow for change, and change helps you grow,” he said. 

Principal Salvatore Alaimo also recognized 50 student-members of the district’s inaugural Century Club, those entering a branch of the armed forces along with the coaches, unsung heroes, teachers, and friends who pushed the graduates to be better. Also congratulated were the 130 students receiving the Seal of Civic Readiness, those who acquired the Seal of Bi-Literacy, and students committed to academics or involved in sports and extracurricular activities through high school.

“Against the backdrop of unprecedented challenges, you navigated the choppy waters of high school with resilience, resourcefulness and spirit,” Alaimo told the graduates. “The world now awaits, eager for your innovative minds and empathetic hearts.” 

After Alaimo certified that the Class of 2024 has met the requirements for graduation set by New York State, Hannah Squicciarini led her peers in the traditional changing of the tassels from right to left.

Prior to handing out the diplomas, superintendent of schools Joseph A. Steimel addressed the students with the message to carry the ESM spirit with them when they face obstacles. “There will be some unknown obstacles and setbacks,” he said. “But you should always remember the resilience you’ve cultivated here at Eastport-South Manor… your greatest weapon in the face of adversity.”

After the final diploma was received, the new graduates threw their caps and exited the gymnasium as new alumni of the Eastport-South Manor Central School District. The district congratulates the Class of 2024 on this milestone accomplishment and extends best wishes for success as the class embarks on a new journey.