Students of Howell Road Elementary School were aglow with excitement during the school’s closing exercises, held in the Elmont Memorial Library auditorium. The ceremony signaled the advancement of the graduates to the next step in their academic careers.
The program opened with a slideshow presentation featuring photos of students both as babies and again as the young adults they are now. That was followed by the processional entrance of students, two by two, to the applause of cheering parents, family and friends.
“Think about the experiences you’ve had at Howell Road to grow and learn academically and to help other people,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Adrienne Robb-Fund. “Those are the values of our school community, your parents and our democracy.” “I am proud of you and encourage you all to stay on the right path,” said Board of Education President Dr. Sean Douglas in his address. Board Vice President Debra Evans and trustee Toni Pomerantz were in attendance as well. In addition, student speakers Shamely Bueno, Hezekiah Destinboble, Melvin Hernandez and Maya Smith provided insight into the hearts and minds of these students. “We celebrate the beginning of a new journey that will lead to great success,” said Principal Frank Huplosky in his address to the students. “We are sending you off to junior high school with the skills not only to survive, but to succeed and flourish.”
After all students had been called forward and handed certificates by Drs. Douglas and Robb-Fund, they combined to sing Alan Menken and David Zippel’s “Go the Distance,” followed by the school song, which signaled the end of the ceremony.
Family and friends greeted the graduates in the lobby for congratulatory hugs and kisses and took advantage of the opportunity to pose for memorable photos before heading off for summer now and middle school in the fall.
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