Huntington Says Goodbye to Class of 2012

For most Long Islanders, June 22 marked a day of horrible travel due to the severe thunderstorms that passed through the area. But for the class of 2012, the day marked the transition from one part of their lives to another.

For the second straight year, the ceremony was moved indoors due to inclement weather — but the rainy condidtions were hardly enough to spoil the day for about 260 seniors and their families who filled the auditorium by 6 p.m.

The ceremony began with a processional, bearing of the flags, the Pledge of Allegiance recited by class president Samantha Palmer and the singing of the Star Spangled Banner by student Kristina Casale. Senior Joseph Straub was the master of ceremonies.

Palmer presented the 2012 senior class gift — a series of flags placed around the parking lot in remembrance of the class, who, according to Palmer, always kept their heads held high, the same way you would look at a flag.

“Mature your hearts,” Palmer encouraged her fellow classmates. “Listen to your hearts and do what you love.”

In a speech, 2012 class salutatorian Justin LoScalzo spoke of the importance of making the most out of it. “The journey is just as important as the destination,” he said.

A talented musician in the school jazz and marching bands and wind ensemble, and helpful tutor to other students, LoScalzo said he tried to follow these words as best he could. He left his classmates with words of confidence: Members of this class can, and will, be whatever they want, he affirmed.

Introduced by her twin sister, Kaja, class valedictorian was equally as inspirational in her parting words to classmates. A National Intel Competition Finalist, the soon-to-be Yale freshman said she felt greatly influenced by her family and peers when it came to achieving that goal. It was because of this that in her speech she spoke of making sure everyone became the best they could be.

“What will we discover?” Coroar asked. “What will we inspire?”

Huntington Board of Education President Emily Rogan informed students that things wouldn’t always go according to plan.

“You learn from the most from the mistakes you make,” she assured.

Superintendent Jim Polansky spoke about the world we live in, how it changes, and how the students must adapt.

“But always remember where you came from,” he said. “Never let anyone compromise your integrity.”

Huntington principal Carmela Leonardi reminded everyone of the great
things they’ve done for the school, which included raising money by
participating in Rely for Life.

“Pursue your dreams,” Leonardi said. “And never lose your generous spirit.”

Then it was time.

Camile Tedeschi and Erik Bruckbauer announced the graduates’ names and, one by one, members of the class of 2012 received their diplomas. And to the sound of as Kool & the Gang’s “Celebration” playing in the background, everyone filed out of the auditorium.