Parents and invited guests filled the Elmont Public Library auditorium in anticipation of the start of the Willow Road School sixth-grade moving up ceremony. Board of Education President Antoinette “Toni” Pomerantz, Vice President Patricia Farrell, board trustees Frank Chiachiere, Pd.D., William P. Stris and Vinny Pandit, Superintendent of Schools Constance D. Evelyn and Interim Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum, Assessment and Technology Shirley E. Martin, Ed.D. were also in attendance.
Before the students marched into the auditorium, the audience enjoyed a special video featuring photos of classmates and friends, their most memorable events along with students’ fondest recollections of the time spent in the Willow Road School.
Following the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance and singing the Star-Spangled Banner, Toni Pomerantz addressed the students. “Tonight marks the end of one journey and the beginning of another for both you and your principal Stephanie Capozzoli. As she retires, you will forever have the unique distinction of being her last graduating class.” Pomerantz also shared some humorous words of advice from the book “Everything I Need to Know I Learned from a Little Golden Book” by Diane Muldrow. In conclusion she added, “Remember to stop and smell the strawberries; work hard, play hard, but not too hard; be proud of your country and don't let the parade pass you by. On behalf of the board of education, we wish you much happiness and success in the future.”
Constance Evelyn shared that she could not help but notice how kind and nurturing the students have been to their classmates and others. She advised the students that change will happen all the time and that it is happening right now. “Before you leave, remember you are an original,” she said. “Work hard, be thoughtful and make an enduring commitment to achieving excellence. If you are afraid of the thorns, you will miss the roses. Dream big. Having a dream worth following is the best way to find yourself.” She concluded by sharing how proud she was of all the students for achieving this milestone and graduating from sixth grade.“We give you back your children, the same children you entrusted in our care,” began Willow Road Principal Stephanie Capozzoli in her final address to the sixth-grade class. It was our pleasure and privilege to watch their personalities unfold.” She added, “As you move on, build upon the Willow Road foundation, have the courage to follow your own path and your dreams. You are the carriers of the light, our nation’s children. Go forward with conviction and confidence.”
Student Council President Federico Ruperto, Vice President Melanie Gangi and Secretary Dominick DeLutri reminisced and shared their classmates’ fondest memories including field trips and participating in the Empire Games.
The time everyone was waiting for arrived as the students were announced and one by one received their certificates from Antoinette “Toni” Pomerantz, Constance D. Evelyn and Stephanie Capozzoli ready and prepared to succeed in the future.
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