Pride, excitement and celebration filled the air as the district recognized more than 1,300 graduates from Elmont Memorial High School, Floral Park Memorial High School, H. Frank Carey High School, New Hyde Park Memorial High School and Sewanhaka High School during five commencement ceremonies held at the David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex at Hofstra University on June 27-28.

As the familiar strains of “Pomp and Circumstance” echoed throughout the venue, graduates made their way into the arena, smiling and greeting family members and friends in the stands with enthusiastic waves. Leading the processional were each school's principal and Superintendent of Schools Regina Agrusa, joined by district and school administrators and members of the board of education.

Throughout the ceremonies, graduates and guests were inspired by heartfelt remarks from the valedictorians, salutatorians, class and Student Council presidents, the principals and Ms. Agrusa.

“Class of 2026, I challenge you to stay curious, remain compassionate and be courageous in the pursuit of your goals,” Ms. Agrusa stated. “As your superintendent, I could not be prouder of the people you are and the impact that you are destined to make.”

Musical performances by student ensembles added to the celebratory atmosphere throughout the commencement ceremonies, showcasing students' talents in chorus, band and orchestra.

For the second year, each building recognized one graduating senior with the esteemed Portrait of a Graduate Award. These students were chosen for exemplifying the district’s vision by demonstrating outstanding achievements in the five competencies: Adaptability, Communication, Critical Thinking, Empathy and Perseverance. The award recipients are Elmont Memorial High School’s Elissa A. Acheampong, Floral Park Memorial High School’s Mannraj Singh, H. Frank Carey High School’s James McGrath, New Hyde Park Memorial High School’s Mia Campuzano and Sewanhaka High School’s Nataly Hernandez Padilla.

With diplomas in hand, the graduates returned to their seats before taking part in one final tradition: moving the tassels on their caps from right to left, officially celebrating their high school achievement and bringing the ceremony to a close.

For more photos, please visit the individual school pages.