Lynbrook Class of 2015 Graduates

Lynbrook High School’s 228 graduating seniors celebrated the moment they have been awaiting throughout their educational experiences.

Donning caps and gowns, members of the Class of 2015 filed onto the Marion Street School field, the setting that has become part of a time-honored tradition, for a commencement ceremony held on the evening of June 25.

Led by Valedictorian Joshua Sarlo and Salutatorian Ryann Moelis, the seniors made their way to their seats as the concert band performed “Pomp and Circumstance.” Following the Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem, High School Principal Joseph Rainis offered greetings and introduced Joshua and Ryann, both of whom addressed their guests and fellow classmates.

“Every person on this field has been preparing to do something great,” Joshua said. “As we approach the future, we cannot be sure of all that is to come, but a simple, yet very important message will allow us to face these uncertainties with the courage to succeed: look. Keep open eyes, an open heart, and an open mind and the beauties as well as all the possibilities of this world lie at our fingertips.”

Ryann acknowledged the fear that comes with new beginnings and unfamiliar surroundings. “Today, my fellow graduates, I urge you to use that fear,” she said. “Let it scare you. Let it awaken you to all of the possibilities ahead, let it inspire you, and let it be the motivation behind all you seek to accomplish. Do not wait for your destinies, achieve them.”

Mr. Rainis recounted the experience of an Army Master Sergeant, Ryan Pitts, who came dangerously close to losing his life in Afghanistan. Sgt. Pitts prevailed, and through the traumatic attack took with him several valuable lessons about persistence, commitment to helping others, facing fears and being courageous.
“To the Class of 2015, it is my hope that you heed the advice of Master Sgt. Ryan Pitts regarding your futures,” Mr. Rainis said. “First, accept the challenges of the next chapter of your story with an eye toward exceeding your horizons; second, always treasure and protect the people closest to you; and third, never let doubt or fear stop you from being who you are meant to be.”

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Melissa Burak also provided advice and words of praise. “This particular class is full of special, caring and considerate young men and woman,” she said. “Not only have they focused on academics, they have focused on being good to each other and their community. It has been a privilege to be a part of their lives.” Dr. Burak then shared a story that emphasized an underlying message about the components of living a full life.

Members of the Board of Education and administration presented diplomas to the graduates, who were called up one by one to formally mark the conclusion of their successful high school years. After many rounds of applause and final congratulatory words from Mr. Rainis, members of the Class of 2015 joyfully tossed their caps into the air as they opened a new chapter.

Courtesy Lynbrook Schools

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