Dozens Of Wantagh Students Inducted Into National Honor Society

WANTAGH, NY — Dozens of students have been inducted into the Wantagh High School National Honor Society. At the event, held Dec. 3 in the auditorium, administrators offered advice the school's string chamber ensemble performed musical interludes and Katriana Koppe sang the national anthem.

Principal Carolyn Breivogel told students the small things they do define their character and that as members of the honor society they represent the "difference between right and wrong, action and inaction."

John McNamara, the superintendent of schools, urged the inductees to innovate and explore their passions while Board of Education President Elizabeth Guber noted the inductees embodied the values of Fred Rogers.

Julie Magnuson, an English teacher and the keynote speaker, likened the students to Odysseus and his epic journey in "The Odyssey."

"Like Odysseus, you are leaders," she said. "You are the kids who will change the world. Keep your eyes on the goal and find your Ithaca."

Society trustees lit ceremonial candles, representing the tenets of scholarship, leadership, service and character. Co-vice presidents William Hostetter and Juliet Watstein led the inductees in the society pledge.

Each inductee was called to the stage to receive a certificate of membership in the society. The trustees also received gold capes and a National Honor Society pin to be worn during the graduation ceremony.

Co-president Elizabeth Byrnes in her closing statement told the students what they're doing is "full of purpose and integrity." She reminded the inductees to enjoy their final year of high school and membership in the society.

Below is a photo roundup of the event, courtesy of Wantagh School District.