The rain did not dampen the special day, as the Northport High School seniors walked across the graduation stage and into the next phase of their lives on June 24. Held in two separate ceremonies in the high school’s auditorium, proud family members, friends, faculty, board members and administrators joined in the commencement celebrations.

The packed auditorium stood as the graduates entered to “Pomp and Circumstance.” Class president Connor Widmaier led the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the National Anthem performed by the Northport High School Choirs under the direction of teachers Nicholas Hart and Ellen McCarthy. Principal Daniel Danbusky welcomed Superintendent of Schools Robert Banzer, the board of education, family members and faculty to the ceremony and thanked them for their support. The Northport High School Choirs then impressed the crowd with their rendition of “Fields of Gold” by Sting.

Special guest New York State Senator Chuck Schumer addressed the Class of 2017 and offered his own advice to the graduates. He encouraged them to “go for it,” as they move into the unknown and stressed that they have the assets to do great things in life.

Salutatorian Sarah Aboldalo approached the podium to thank the faculty members, administrators and board members for helping shape her and her fellow peers into the individuals they are today, comparing their experiences in high school to puzzle pieces in their lives.

In addition, Mr. Danbusky also addressed the Class of 2017, adding humor and guidance into his speech.

“Every door is open to you now,” he said. “Your memories of your time here will echo in your minds and your heart for the rest of your lives. The impact that you have made as a class has furthered our reputation as a prominent educational institution, promoting excellence in all areas.”

Following his address, board of education members presented the diplomas to the Class of 2017. Graduates were congratulated by Mr. Banzer and Mr. Danbusky as they made their way off the stage.

Valedictorian Cybele Laisney concluded the ceremony, reflecting on a recent family hiking trip that she took and explaining what she learned on her journey to inspire her fellow classmates.

“The decisions that we make don’t need to be monumental,” she said. “They could be as simple as going left on a trail that was meant to go right. From this small decision, this small chance, you may find that your life will become more worthwhile and perhaps you will find new meaning.”

The graduates conducted the tassel change to symbolize their completion of high school and with their loved ones looking on, proudly exited the auditorium to the Graduation Honor Band’s rendition of the “Grand March.”

Congratulations to all the graduates!