Freeport High School Celebrates 575 Graduates at 131st Commencement Ceremony

Freeport Public Schools celebrated 575 graduating seniors at the 131st Freeport High School commencement ceremony on June 22 at Hofstra University’s David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex.

The event commenced with the high school symphonic band playing “Pomp and Circumstance” as district administrators, members of the Board of Education and staff led the graduates into the arena, marking the conclusion of their high school journey and the beginning of new adventures.

The high school’s Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps presented the colors, and the Select Chorale sang the national anthem, before Assistant Principal Aaron Johnson, who served as master of ceremonies, welcomed the crowd.

Speaking first, senior class President Shaleah Burnett said, “Today we celebrate our hard work, determination and accomplishments. Each one of us has a story of growth and success. Don’t be afraid to chase your dreams, take risks and embrace the unknown. May we always carry forward the values we learned at Freeport High School: integrity, respect and the power of community.”

Superintendent Kishore Kuncham addressed the Class of 2024, saying, “As I retire, I carry with me the countless memories of this extraordinary community. For 30 years I have had the privilege of witnessing the growth, achievements and transformations of countless students. Graduating with you today feels like the perfect culmination of my journey, and I am deeply honored to share this moment with you.”

He continued, “Class of 2024, the world is waiting for you. Go out and be fearless. Be resilient. Be changemakers. Be unique. Be all that you can be and more. The future is yours to shape, and I have no doubt that you will leave an indelible mark on the world. Remember, no matter where life takes you, you will always have a home here, and you will always be a part of our school’s legacy.

Congratulations, and thank you for allowing me to be a part of your journey. Now, go out and be the change you wish to see in the world. With heartfelt pride and best wishes, I say to you: Class of 2024, the future is yours to shape. Make it extraordinary.”

The ceremony marked Kuncham’s final graduation before his retirement in August.

Following his speech, Freeport High Principal Gisselle Campbell-Ham reflected on the graduates’ journey. “Think back on your first day of high school,” she said. “You were filled with a mix of excitement and nervousness, not sure what to expect, and since then you have navigated the complexities of academic life, built friendships and developed your passions. As you step into this new chapter, remember, you carry the legacy of Freeport High School with you. You are now ambassadors of our values, our dedication to excellence and our spirit of community. Make us proud by leading lives with integrity, purpose and distinction.”

Class of 2024 Salutatorian Etienne Sasenarine exhorted his classmates to maintain a winning mentality, resilience and passion. Valedictorian Jeremy Dominguez reflected on their collective achievements and friendships.

“Think of all the accomplishments we have achieved as a class: Wind Ensemble earning their Gold with Distinction award, various students joining different honor societies, our sports teams going above and beyond every season — and we even witnessed a once-in-a-lifetime eclipse,” Dominguez said. “All of these accomplishments, this success and happiness, came from hard work, the support of others and the strong bonds we made throughout our time here. Remember to believe in yourself, but always to bring friends, make friends and support each other along the way.”

After the diplomas were handed out, Assistant Principal Johnson emphasized the importance of gratitude, empathy, excellence and peace. “Embrace the blessing that is this moment and express gratitude no matter what life has presented to you,” he said. “Never dim your light, shine as brightly as the stars you are by exuding excellence, and always set your eyes to the heavens, because even the sky isn’t the limit.”