VIDEO: HHHS Class of 2012 Graduation

There were tons of smiles, cheers, hugs and a few tears as the Class of 2012 made their way onto the stage one last time proudly wearing orange and black as they marked their graduation from  Hasbrouck Heights High School.

As family members waited for the graduates to enter the Bergen Academies auditorium a video showing highlights of the graduates four years shown on the big screen. For another touch of nostalgia, a baby photo of each graduate followed by his or her graduation photo showed up on the screen which drew lots of cheers from the crowd.

Among everyone who spoke the message was clear that one thing may be ending but many new things will begin. Class valedictorian Jennifer Cheng said, “With every end comes a new beginning and with every new beginning a new doorway.”

Class speaker Jennifer White told her fellow graduates their class can be easily compared to a band, with every member working together to make a song. She told them their tour may be coming to an end but the songs they made will last forever as they can never be uncreated.

Principal Linda Simmons told the graduates that although she has only been with them for six months, she has been observing them and as a result was inspired by them.  She praised them on the positive impacts they have made, and their achievements in the academics, arts, athletics, music and for being civically minded.

“All of these things I have experienced with you have really influenced me all in a positive way. By helping me I hope you realize you have actually helped the future students that are going to come after you. You have set the road for them,” Simmons told the graduates.

The graduates heard a tale from Mark Porto, superintendent, where he demonstrated the types of problem solving they all may encounter one day. He used the example he shared as a way to remind them that they have been given these skills while at Hasbrouck Heights High School and therefore he has no doubt that there isn’t anything they won’t be able to solve.