The Class of 2024 threw their caps into the air upon being named graduates. More than a decade of lessons, achievements and connections were represented in a single unforgettable moment as the Division Avenue High School Class of 2024 crossed the stage and became graduates at the Hofstra University David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex on June 22.

Cheers rang out from the bleachers as seniors processed toward their seats to the tune of "Pomp and Circumstance" performed by the string orchestra under the direction of Mark Martufi. Jessica Bhandal led the Pledge of Allegiance before senior members of the concert choir performed the national anthem under the direction of Alison Sellars.

Division Avenue Principal John Coscia reminded graduates that their perseverance is made possible by their strong unity. "Each of you has the ability to lift each other up without expecting anything in return, which is the hallmark of outstanding character and leadership."

Superintendent of Schools Todd Winch urged the Class of 2024 to look ahead with ambition. "Now, armed with knowledge, experience and resilience, you stand at the dawn of a new day filled with the promise and excitement of an unscored future."

Mr. Winch individually recognized graduates who will serve in various branches of the Unites States Armed Forces. Each received a flag originally hung in a Division classroom.

Salutatorian Ceyda Nazli congratulated her peers on a prideful accomplishment. "Functions are not always linear, and neither is problem-solving," she said. "That's why if you want to make your life less tiring, you need to give yourself grace along the way. Remember that you aren't supposed to be anything you were told you are ? you should just be."

Seniors in the string orchestra joined their peers for a performance of "Cincopations" by Richard Meyer. Valedictorian Syeda Nowroz addressed her peers and related their diverse experiences to the virtual world in the video game, "Minecraft."

"Despite the main objective of the game being to reach the end, players are given full freedom to do what they please," she said. "Minecraft is more similar to our high school paths than you might think... Each person carves their own path, and just because you aren't doing what that Science Olympian is doing, or what that football star is doing, doesn't mean that you're any farther from the path to success."

Class of 2024 President Carly Perez reflected on her many experiences throughout her years in Levittown Schools. This year, Carly and her peers visited Summit Lane Elementary School, where she had a memorable experience speaking with a younger student who asked about her own graduation year. "We sat there and did the math and came up with the year 2034," she said. "I told her to enjoy the memories with the people around you, because one day the moments you shared with classmates will just be distant memories. The pure innocence of this little girl excited for the future reminded me of myself."

Graduates viewed a collection of snapshots gathered in a commemorative video. Board of Education First Vice President Peggy Marenghi commended the Class of 2024 on their impressive accolades and accomplishments. Seniors pridefully turned their tassels marking them graduates, and each were called forward to receive their diploma on stage.

Senior members of the concert choir joined their peers for a performance.Graduates crossed the stage to receive their diplomas.Graduates showed their pride in reaching a momentous milestone.Graduates entering the United States Armed Forces received recognition.Division Avenue High School seniors proudly processed toward their seats in the Hofstra University David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex on June 22 for their commencement ceremony.