Amityville Memorial High School health teacher Chris Gannon recently certified 22 students in adult and pediatric CPR/AED and first aid through the American Red Cross. These students were part of a CPR and first aid course offered at the high school.

Clad in red and silver caps and gowns, Amityville Memorial High School’s senior class had their final moment together. The 208 members of the Class of 2017 received their diplomas on June 24 during a ceremony filled with excitement and encouragement.

Principal Dr. Lois Etzel said that their successes are a testament to the love and support of their families. She also asked the graduates to reflect on the teachers and staff members who have touched their lives in high school and throughout their time in the district.  

“Where did the time go?” commented Superintendent Dr. Mary T. Kelly, who noted that much of the class has been together since kindergarten. She encouraged them to value their friendships and treasure their memories as they move on to the next chapter of their lives.

Valedictorian Esteban Idrovo Ponce and Salutatorian Lawrence Haave told their classmates that their best days are still to come. “These past years shouldn’t be the highlight of your life,” Lawrence said. “Go on to do amazing things.”

“None of us have made it just yet,” Esteban added.

Class President Madison Daly compared the last 13 years of school to a book. They had their introduction in kindergarten, the rising plot of high school, the climax of senior year and the resolution of graduation. “My only hope that we’ll meet again,” she said.

Graduation marked the end of a month of celebratory activities including senior awards, the senior walk through the middle school and elementary schools, and college athlete signings. The graduates were handed their bright red diploma holders from Dr. Etzel and Dr. Kelly, and received congratulatory handshakes and hugs from Board of Education members as they crossed the stage.

The ceremony concluded with an impassioned speech by Board of Education President Terry Fulton, who encouraged the graduates to use the wisdom and insight they have gained to make good decisions going forward. He said it is now up to them how far they will continue their educations. “You are Amityville Warriors,” he said. “Never, ever give up.”

Sixteen seniors at Amityville Memorial High School will continue their athletic pursuits at the next level as they will take their talents to colleges across Long Island, New York and the United States. They were honored at Senior Athlete College Celebration Day on June 2.

The Suffolk County champion boys track and field team will have six of its members compete for college squads including Emmanuel Oguntoye and Alijah Benymon at Virginia State University, Terrance Hinds at Bowie State University, Jowell Dixon at the University at Albany, Brandon Gilpin at Morehouse College and Kalvin O’Neal at Johnson C. Smith University. Kayla Miller, from the girls track and field team, also will head to Johnson C. Smith University.

La’Niya Clark, who scored her 1,000th career point earlier this year, will suit up for the SUNY Old Westbury basketball team. Destiny Knox will play volleyball at Nassau Community College and Diana Bernard will join the softball team at Suffolk Community College.

Three members of the Long Island champion boys soccer team will continue playing including Timothy Hermann for New England College, Aaron Mathurin for Morrisville State College and Elvis Amaya for St. Joseph’s College. Denis Douglas will play football for Wagner College, Nicholas Clark joins the football team at Monroe College and Marquell Sterling will play basketball for St. Thomas Aquinas College.

During the event, the first to be live-streamed on the school district’s website, each athlete spoke about their future plans, thanked those who have supported them over the year, and put on the hat of their new school. Joining in the celebration were administrators, coaches and family members. 

“We’re very proud of these young men and women for all of their accomplishments at Amityville Memorial High School,” said Athletic Director Evan Farkas. “We look forward to seeing them excel in college, both in the classroom and on the playing field.”

View all of the senior awards at Amityville Memorial High School.

More than 100 seniors at Amityville Memorial High School were recognized for their academic accomplishments and service to their school and community at the annual Senior Awards Ceremony on June 1.

Students received certificates for their achievement in various classes and their leadership in school clubs. Several local organizations, businesses and families sponsored scholarships. Guidance counselors Maria Leon-Pineros, Stacy Murphy and Jacqueline Noon read off each student’s awards and post-high school plans. 

“June is a wonderful month for celebrations, especially for our graduating class of 2017,” said Superintendent Dr. Mary T. Kelly in congratulating not only the seniors but also all those who have supported them. 

Joining in the celebration were family members, Board of Education trustees and administrators. The ceremony included remarks from Acting Principal Dr. Lois Etzel, a video tribute to the top 25 graduates and a photo montage. A reception followed in the courtyard.