East Meadow High School’s seniors enjoyed a balmy afternoon as they celebrated their graduation at the high school’s football field on Friday, June 21.
The Class of 2024 processed onto the field to roaring applause from their families and friends. They were joined by the Board of Education, central and district administration, and East Meadow High School administration, faculty and staff. After the processional, the graduates proudly took their seats to begin the commencement ceremony.
The event kicked off with a rendition of the national anthem by the senior chorale, and were joined by a group of students performing the song in American Sign Language. Superintendent of Schools Kenneth Rosner and Board of Education President Matthew Melnick each addressed the graduates.
“You have worked incredibly hard to make it to this milestone,” Mr. Melnick said. “From your first day in the East Meadow School District, your teachers have done a terrific job of preparing you for what the future may bring and have always encouraged you to be lifelong learners.”
Valedictorian Maggie Li, salutatorian Andrew Cheng and Class President Kayla Cassidy then spoke to their classmates with their respective addresses.
“The Class of 2024 is one of the smartest, brightest and overall best classes of East Meadow High School,” Cheng said. “If you don’t believe me, just ask your teachers. As the decades unfold, we’re the ones with the skills, the talent and the power to influence the world around us.”
“It’s from memories, whether of laughter or of tears, where we truly grow, and what a beautiful thing that this,” Li said. “While our memories together may begin to blur as we get caught up in college, work and everything else that awaits us, please remember that you’re an East Meadow Jet at heart.”
Principal Richard Howard addressed the senior class before the awarding of diplomas.
“I would like to thank the Class of 2024 one last time for their accomplishments,” Mr. Howard said. “As you start the next chapter of your life, do not hesitate to thank your parents, tell them you love them, and acknowledge all of the sacrifices that they’ve made throughout your life. You are now part of an elite group of people who have accomplished the task of graduating from this great high school.”
After the last student was called to receive their diploma, the students celebrated with a cap toss and cheers. The crowd looked on proudly as the graduates processed off the field, ready to take on the next chapter of their lives.
The district wishes the East Meadow High School Class of 2024 luck, success and fulfillment in their futures.
Photo captions:
1-6: East Meadow High School seniors celebrated their completion of high school at their graduation ceremony on June 21.
7: Principal Richard Howard welcomed students, staff, administrators and families to the East Meadow High School graduation ceremony on June 21.
8: Superintendent of Schools Kenneth Rosner addressed the graduates at East Meadow High School’s commencement ceremony on June 21.
9: Maggie Li, valedictorian of the East Meadow High School Class of 2024, delivered her valedictory address to her fellow graduates at the school’s commencement ceremony on June 21.
10: East Meadow High School Class of 2024 salutatorian Andrew Cheng reflected on his high school experience with his classmates during his salutatory address at graduation on June 21.
