W.T. Clarke Grads Ready To Start The Next Chapter Of Their Lives

EAST MEADOW, NY — On June 26, W.T. Clarke High School seniors reflected on the past four years while thinking about their futures during the 2022 commencement ceremony at the school’s football field.

The graduates proudly processed onto the field to the sound of the classic “Pomp and Circumstance.” They were accompanied by the East Meadow Board of Education, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth A. Card Jr. and members of central administration, Principal Timothy Voels and W.T. Clarke faculty and staff.

Valedictorian Nicholas Espinosa and salutatorian Katherene Qi reflected on four unforgettable years at Clarke.

“You are brilliant and unique, so don’t let anyone tell you otherwise,” Qi said. “You cannot let anyone tell you how to live your life. Live to be what you want.”

“To my fellow classmates, as we enter adulthood, we cannot sit idly,” Espinosa said. “Remember that the large-scale issues that we see on the news are not the only problems that need to be solved. I urge you to find a cause about which you are most passionate.”

Following the graduates’ addresses, Card and Board of Education President Alisa Baroukh each gave commencement addresses.

“Today concludes a significant and wonderful chapter of your life and an equally significant and wonderful chapter is about to begin,” Card said. “May the lessons learned at W.T. Clarke High School serve you well.”

The presentation of diplomas followed, with each student being called by name to be recognized for their successful completion of high school. As the students began their recession from the field after receiving their diplomas, the crowd roared with applause for the new W.T. Clarke High School alumni.