The accomplishments of the Bellport High School Class of 2022 were celebrated during a graduation ceremony on June 24. As family and friends looked on, the class was praised for overcoming the pandemic era and working to achieve important milestones in their educational careers.

Welcoming the students was Principal Erika Della Rosa. During her introductory comments, Della Rosa spoke about the uniqueness of the South Country School District and the challenges faced by the graduating class, particularly COVID-19. Despite this, she noted, “You learned to make lemonade out of lemons on a regular basis. That is a testament to your strength and courage.” She added, “I challenge you to remember these past four years and know that learning from the obstacles you faced will keep you on track.”

Essayist Eric Ciavatta discussed memories of the past 13 years. “We made it and it wasn’t like ‘High School Musical’ at all, but here we are on our graduation day about to walk out. How quickly that time has passed,” he said. “High school was not easy, but we persevered through many challenges.”

During his salutatory address, Calvin Pedatella offered advice to the graduates that was once offered to him as a PAL football player. “Each of you has the ability to succeed at the next level if you are willing to work hard and find ways to improve,” he said. “We are a diverse group, and despite our differences, we are graduating together. We can all enter the next phase of our lives knowing that we always have the support of the Bellport community. Let’s make sure each of us takes a little part of Bellport with us.”

Rounding out the speeches was valedictorian Rianna Raghunandan, who spoke about the unknowns of the future. “As much of the future may hold many unknowns, [it also] holds incredible potential — the kind of potential I have seen in all of you seniors,” she said. “We are moving forward in our lives with direction and motivation.” She concluded, “We are starting new paths, but this school where we have grown will always be a part of us, and we should never forget the place we call home as we soar into the future.”

After the celebratory speeches, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Joseph Giani certified the diplomas and announced that the seniors had completed the requirements for graduation. Board President E. Anne Hayes then led the students in the traditional moving of the tassel, symbolizing that the seniors were now alumni of the South Country Central School District.

Date Added: 6/28/2022