Island Park honors eighth grade class of 2024

Island Park’s eighth grade graduates sat center stage on the evening of June 25, when they celebrated their final moments at Lincoln Orens Middle School. Held in the Steven L. Foster Auditorium, the 62nd Annual Commencement Ceremony drew an audience of Board of Education, administration and faculty members, along with students’ proud families.  

The event kicked off with the graduation orchestra’s performance of “Pomp and Circumstance” and a salute to the American flag. Lincoln Orens Middle School Principal Bruce Hoffman welcomed all attendees and introduced Outstanding Achievement Award recipients Chloe Kopsachilis, Marisa Curtis and Giselle Ventura, who discussed the Class of 2024’s past, present and future, respectively.  

“All of you have received the skills necessary to be successful,” Hoffman said. “Remember to be bold, be brave, take risks, speak your mind, stand up against injustices and speak up for what you believe. Strive to learn something new each day. Be kind, goodhearted individuals and treat others with respect; be sure to love and take care of your family and loved ones and be productive members of the Island Park community, society and our great nation. As you and your families reflect on this wonderful achievement, remember the best things in life are the people we love, the places we’ve seen and the memories we’ve made along the way.”

Members of the chorus performed Natasha Bedingfield’s “Unwritten” as they reflected on their middle school years. Superintendent of Schools Vincent Randazzo, board of education president Jack Vobis and board of education vice president Kathleen McDonough presented diplomas as faculty members introduced the graduates. Students earned special awards in areas such as academics, the arts, athletics and community service, and these achievements were listed as their names were called.

Once each student had received their moment in the spotlight, Hoffman led the audience in a round of applause for the Class of 2024.  

The Lincoln Orens Color Guard then conducted the Transfer of Colors, at which time the graduates turned their flags and sashes over to their younger, seventh grade successors.   

Closing the ceremony, Randazzo addressed the graduating class. He praised the students for their continued perseverance, dedication and hard work. He shared advice and encouragement for the future.

“As you embark on this journey to high school, I ask you to remember all the lessons you were taught inside and outside the classrooms of Francis X. Hegarty and Lincoln Orens Middle School,” Randazzo said. “Remember all the chances you took and transformations you’ve undergone and the skills and knowledge you will need to face new challenges in your life and the confidence to go out into the wider world.”

He said he hopes that the Island Park School District instilled a love of learning and desire to be critical thinkers and innovators who want to change the world.