Graduates concluded the ceremony by tossing their caps. Cheers echoed through the Hofstra University David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex on June 21 as loved ones watched graduating seniors process toward their seats for the 64th General Douglas MacArthur High School commencement ceremony.

Opening the ceremony, Class President Thomas Bennet led the Pledge of Allegiance and senior choir members sang the national anthem as Jessie Marousek interpreted with sign language. Principal Joseph Sheehan told the Class of 2025 to "go after your dreams with steadfast confidence and passion" and recalled a personal moment he shared with the seniors.

"When you asked me to join you on stage at the senior variety show last month, I was beyond touched and it truly meant more to me than you could ever imagine," Mr. Sheehan said. "My mind was, 'I am Mac.' But the truth is, I'm not 'Mac;'' you are not 'Mac;' we are 'Mac.'"

Graduates entering various branches of the United States Armed Forces received recognition from Superintendent of Schools Todd Winch, who told the Class of 2025, "Keep working hard, dream big, set goals and pursue them with passion, but along the way, don't forget to pause."

MacArthur Salutatorian Katherine Tian reflected on the circumstances that brought her and her peers to this moment. "Luck is all around us," she said. "From the relationships we form with one another, to the connections and opportunities that come."

MacArthur Valedictorian Melody Hong gave her class address, relating their journeys to the paths and varying destinations that rubber ducks travel in a race. "In the end, we all end up in different places along the river, but that does not take away any value at all for each of our journeys."

"You've already come so far, and you continue to do a good job where you are now - so keep going!" Melody continued. "You've got this. We've got this."

Class President Thomas Bennett addressed his fellow graduates before senior band members joined their peers to perform "Flight of the Thunderbird" directed by Joseph Romano. After watching a commemorative video produced by students Ciara Chan, Sadie Coppola, Sophia Leon, Olivia Pereira and Melanie Wan, Board President Jennifer Messina began the conferring of diplomas. Upon the turning of their tassels ? and a ceremonious tossing of their caps ? seniors officially became graduates of Levittown Schools.

Diplomas were displayed with smiles.MacArthur's Student Council celebrated a year of success.Salutatorian Katherine Tian addressed her peers.Graduates proudly shook hands with trustees.General Douglas MacArthur High School seniors were ready to cross the stage at the Hofstra University David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex on June 21.