South Side seniors look to the future

After a tumultuous year that saw students jump from virtual to hybrid and back to in-person learning because of the coronavirus pandemic, South Side High School's class of 2021 had its moment in the sun as they gathered at Hofstra University's Shuart Stadium for gradation.

"I know it's early and it's outdoors and it's even a little rainy, but at least it's not a Zoom call," salutatorian Sophia Romanello said. "Tonight, celebrate all your accomplishments with your loved ones and appreciate all the little moments that have made you who you are."

Valedictorian Ethan Steere challenged his fellow graduates to become the new captains of industry, citing Elon Musk in his speech. "We are all stuck on this planet," he said. "We are all that we have, and that makes us a team, whether we like it or not."

Board of Education President Tara Hackett likened the lessons that students, faculty members and their families have learned this year to those in the musical "Rent."

"How do you measure a year?" she asked, quoting the famous musical. "As you reflect on this past year, you'll undoubtedly remember what you overcame to get here, but I urge you to focus on what you had to celebrate this year instead."

South Side Principal John Murphy echoed those sentiments, urging the students to accentuate the positives of their experiences.

"Even in the best of times, we may not receive that which we wanted, but there were successes in victories, even in those shortcomings," he said. "It's up to you as we leave here to decide which side of the narrative you are going to retain and make part of your memories."

After a video montage honoring and celebrating the graduates, Class President Emilio Grillo spoke to his peers about the new, exciting and unknown chapter that they have reached in their lives.

"High school was fun, but now we are devoting our lives to discovering our passions," he said. "Now is the time to learn what we want to be and to pursue our dreams. I can't wait to see what our generation is on the way to achieving."

Assemblywoman Judy Griffin sent a video message to the graduating seniors and school staff. "As a Rockville Centre resident and proud mom of four South Side High School graduates, I am honored to be able to represent each of you in Albany," she said. "I know that you will all continue to do great things as you go on to pursue your dreams, and I look forward to following your future endeavors."

State Sen. Todd Kaminsky also sent a video message to the students. "You had to endure especially difficult circumstances that I believe in the end will make you stronger," he said. "I know that you will carry with you the confidence and determination that is required to get anything done."

When the graduation concluded, and the diplomas were handed out, the students turned the tassels on their caps from right to left and then joined together in a celebratory cap toss. The celebration continued all the way back to the school, where students piled into their cars and led a mini-parade down Princeton Road to complete the festivities.