Schools

Lynbrook High School hosts graduation ceremony

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The Lynbrook High School class of 2016 celebrated their graduation by throwing their mortarboards in the air.
The Lynbrook High School class of 2016 celebrated their graduation by throwing their mortarboards in the air.
Ross Farber/Herald

The Lynbrook High School class of 2016 celebrated their graduation on June 23 in an outdoor ceremony at the Marion Street School.

Valedictorian Andrew Meersand urged his fellow graduates to leave some room in their hearts for the unimaginable. He recounted a story about how perseverance after one his greatest failures led him to an unexpected mentorship with a Harvard research professor who helped shape his future. “So what’s the lesson in this?” he asked. “You have to be in it to win it.”

Salutatorian Gabriel Ajzenman encouraged his classmates to continue to go the distance. “As we move on, I urge you to all take risks and leave your comfort zone,” he said. “Happiness does not come from the dollars you earn, but from how inspired you are each day by what you are doing. Find your passion and you will reach your full potential.”

Principal Joseph Rainis gave a long list of accomplishments that this class will be remembered for, and offered them some final words of encouragement and advice, which he drew from basketball coach Jim Valvano. “Lead with your heart, take healthy risks, remember where you come from, recognize who you are and remain grateful for the challenges you will face and the support you receive along the way.”

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Melissa Burak congratulated the graduates on taking full advantage of the educational rights this country affords them. And as they prepare to make their way in the world she encouraged them to continue to “seize opportunities, be courageous, strive for excellence, be innovators, and most of all, be thankful.”

After all of the diplomas were handed out, the class excitedly threw their caps in the air, to thunderous applause.