PJHS celebrates 150th Annual Commencement

PORT JERVIS – Port Jervis High School’s Class of 2019 celebrated the 150th Annual Commencement of their district on June 28, as well as the uniqueness and promise of each graduating senior.

“Your individuality is the very essence of you. It goes beyond your surface level, your appearance and everyday mannerisms, and gets right down to the meaty question of “Who am I? What do I like? What makes me tick?” Class of 2019 Valedictorian Marcus Figorito told his classmates. “It is because of this that I would like to give you a brief warning about what I consider the greatest threat to our individuality: Labels. So often in life we are asked to label ourselves. The troubles come when your labels begin to limit what you see yourself as being able to do.”

Figorito urged his peers to follow their passions and hold tight to their individuality.

PJSD Superintendent Michael Rydell welcomed the large gathering at Chase Field by relating thoughts formed as he mowed his grass recently. He noted how he had observed the flapping wings of a stationary moth, and compared these thoughts to lessons taught to second graders about the contributions, beauty, and purpose of a butterfly. This he related to the open paths and major contributions anticipated in the futures of Port’s graduating seniors.

“A butterfly can travel far distances, or create small localized changes that bring major effects in a complex system elsewhere,” Rydell said. “As you go through life, be a hurricane of activity that brings a tsunami of benefits for society. Make a difference with a purpose. We look forward to your effect.”

One hundred and sixty-two seniors, along with many of the teaching staff of the district, processed onto Chase Field, led by six in their class who are entering America’s military forces this year and carried a large American flag onto the field. Joselyn Card (Coast Guard), Alexander Meacham, Alexander Rodriguez, and Justin Simonson (Marines), and Lucia Moliterno and Mykalya Rodriquez (Army Reserves) were joined by salutatorian Bryn Hendershot for the Pledge of Allegiance and PJHS Chorus members, past and present, for the National Anthem.

PJHS Principal Andrew Marotta’s introductory words prompted traditional two-clap responses and cheers as he spoke of his pride in being principal of PJHS and of the “tremendous young adults of Class of 2019.”

“Your kindergarten moving-up ceremony was in 2007. Many of the same family were there for you that day, too. They didn’t send you to school just to start school. They sent you to be educated, to learn, and graduate, which you are about to do,” Marotta said. “You are about to get a short break this summer, and then start again. It’s not where you start, graduates; it is where you finish. Wherever your next race is, keep on running. Don’t quit. Can’t fail. Go Port! We love you!”

School Board President Tanya Parker-Hughes, PJHS Class of 1989, shared philosophical quotes, including lessons learned in kindergarten.

“Share everything. Play fair. Live a balanced life. Hold hands and stick together,” Parker-Hughes advised the graduating class, adding with a chuckle, “And cookies, a nap, and a blankie at 3 p.m. will always be a good thing.”

Three class speakers addressed their classmates. Figorito was first, then Class President Gavin Staerker.

“We grew closer to friends, built relationships, and became upperclassmen, making decisions that would dictate many facets of our lives,” Staerker said. “We applied to colleges, joined the workforce, and some decided to go serve our nation. I challenge you all to move mountains, and to just live, sit back and enjoy the small things, make lifelong friends and cherish every moment of your future endeavors.”

Gabriel Morris, elected by his class to speak, urged his classmates to “dip their toes” and hold onto hope as they achieve life goals.

“Once you shed the fear, the world is whatever you make it,” Morris said. “Never lose hope because we’re all capable of achieving anything we want.”

Senior class officers, President Gavin Staerker, Vice President Steven Johnson, Secretary Chasity Spearman, Treasurer Bryn Hendershot, Parliamentarian Cameron-Alyse Scott, and Social Chairperson Barbara Taubes, presented a class gift of a chess table for the school’s courtyard and thanked their teachers for all of the support that helped them to succeed.

Then the moment long awaited. A Port Pride clap led by master percussionist and four-sport varsity letter winner Rudae Gadson, a staff-led walk by row to the stage by Grand Marshal Donovan Parker, and certification by their principal that each had earned their diploma.

“By the authority vested in me by the New York State Board of Regents, and by the Port Jervis City School District, on this very special 150th graduation of Port Jervis High School, I duly certify that the Class of 2019 has fulfilled all requirements and citizenship for graduation. Congratulations, Port Jervis High School Class of 2019! Go Port!”