Celebrating The POBJFKHS Class of 2025

The Plainview-Old Bethpage John F. Kennedy High School Class of 2025 recently held its commencement ceremony at Hofstra University. The event served as a milestone for the graduates, symbolizing the culmination of their hard work as high schoolers and the launching point for future pursuits. Amid speeches from peers and administrators, the class reflected on their lives in Plainview-Old Bethpage and what they will take with them as they depart.

Valedictorian Jillian Zhang celebrated her classmates' accomplishments and urged them to take pride in their triumphs over adversity. She imparted three life lessons from her school years, "Drink lots of water, give yourself a pat on the back, and never forget to say 'I love you.' " Acknowledging both the joys and challenges of high school life, she admitted, "I hate to think about goodbye." Yet she encouraged her peers to face the future with grace, saying, "Choose to be vulnerable in a world that could use a little more love."

Salutatorian Chloe Ng implored her classmates to acknowledge those who had been instrumental in their individual paths. “Do not forget to show your love and gratitude to those who helped you get to where you are today,” she said. Recalling her own struggles with public speaking, she shared a mentor’s advice, who told her to “‘Take a deep breath and pause.’” She urged the class to apply this mindset beyond the stage: “Do not forget to pause at the top and enjoy the moment we have in front of us.”

Dr. Mary O'Meara, Superintendent of Schools, highlighted the Class of 2025's remarkable achievements, including a 99% graduation rate, over $10 million in scholarships, and $97,000 in community awards. She expressed her excitement that the graduates would now apply the skills fostered by the POB school system to improve the world. “Spend a quiet moment each day reflecting on who you want to be,” Dr. O’Meara said. “That reflection shapes your values and your values guide your choices.” She implored students to apply their knowledge to make the world a better place. Your values, your compass, will help you to decide when to speak up, when to step back, and how to make a difference in your corner of the world.”

For more information about the Plainview-Old Bethpage Central School District, please visit the District’s website at www.pobschools.org. Exciting activities happening throughout the District and programs celebrating student achievement can also be found on the District’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/pobschools/.