On the evening of June 27, the East Rockaway High School Class of 2025 gathered with family, friends and faculty at the East Rockaway Athletic Complex for a memorable graduation ceremony set against a backdrop of a beautiful breezy summer night.

The celebration began with the traditional processional, as graduates made their way around the track to the sounds of “Pomp and Circumstance.” Proud family members and friends looked on from the stands, capturing photos and cheering as the seniors took their final steps as high school students.

Following the Pledge of Allegiance, the senior chorus, under the direction of Ms. Seanna Silver, delivered a stirring rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner. They followed with a heartfelt performance of the senior song, “I’ll Be There for You”, the beloved theme from “Friends”, adding a personal and nostalgic touch to the evening.

Keynote remarks were delivered by Superintendent James DeTommaso, Board of Education Vice President Dineen Cilluffo, senior class advisors Ms. Shannen Conley and Ms. Rebecca Mantle, and Principal Richard Schaffer. Each speaker shared words of pride, encouragement and reflection as the graduates prepared to begin the next chapter of their lives.

Student voices took center stage as well, with inspiring speeches from Valedictorian Timothy Poland, Salutatorian Joey Lu, and class officers Joseph Ventura and Erin Lynch. Their messages of gratitude, perseverance and pride resonated throughout the stadium.

The evening culminated in the presentation of diplomas, followed by the jubilant cap toss that marked the official end of the graduates’ high school journey.

Click here to view individual photos.