On the evening of June 27, the Bethpage High School community gathered on the football field to honor the graduating Class of 2025 in the school’s 70th commencement ceremony. With the sun setting and loved ones cheering from the stands, graduates paraded in, led by school administrators, to the classic notes of “Pomp and Circumstance,” performed by the Bethpage High School Band.
Senior Ava Mirabelli gave a stirring performance of the national anthem before Principal Nicholas Jantz warmly welcomed the crowd and set the tone for the evening. In his remarks, Mr. Jantz praised the class for not only their academic and athletic accomplishments, but also their spirit and character.
“The Class of 2025 has set the bar high not just in academics and athletics, but in kindness, perseverance and community spirit,” he said. “They have shown us what it means to work hard, support one another and succeed with integrity.”
Student voices played a central role in the ceremony. Senior class president Isabel Romero and student council president Matthew Cusumano addressed their peers, reflecting on the journey they had shared and the future that lies ahead. Salutatorian Alexa Likorentzos encouraged her classmates to embrace the winding road ahead.
“You may have a goal, a dream, a clear destination, but reaching it may take far longer than you would have ever imagined, and that’s OK,” she said. “The journey makes you who you are. Wherever your journey leads you, may you chase it with courage.”
Valedictorian Kaitlyn Ocuto built on that message, offering an uplifting perspective on navigating uncertainty. “In the end, the path isn’t what matters most,” she said. “It’s the person you become along the way. You can’t plan every detail of your future, but how you respond to life’s surprises — that’s what truly defines you.”
Superintendent David Schneider commended the class for their achievements and character. “Your achievements in academics, the fine and performing arts and athletics have showcased your school and community and have made us very proud,” he said. “I also believe that this special class reminded all of us of a great lesson of life: consistency wins.”
As the sun dipped lower and the final notes of the ceremony played out, students marked the end of their high school journey with the time-honored tradition of moving their tassels from right to left — and with a jubilant toss of their caps into the evening sky.