W.T. Clarke Graduates Celebrate Their Achievements

EAST MEADOW, NY — W.T. Clarke High School held its graduation ceremony for the class of 2021 at Nassau County’s Mitchel Field Athletic Complex on June 27. The field, adorned with accents of Clarke’s signature maroon, was the chosen location for the ceremony to safely accommodate all of the graduates and their families in one event.

The graduates proudly processed onto the field to the sound of the classic “Pomp and Circumstance.” They were accompanied by the East Meadow Board of Education, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth A. Card Jr. and members of central administration, Principal Timothy Voels, members of the building administration and W.T. Clarke faculty and staff.

Following a performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner” by the senior chorus, salutatorian Saniya Gaitonde, valedictorian Justin Guo and senior class president Catherine Posillico kicked off the student speech portion of the ceremony. In their addresses, Guo and Gaitonde reflected on a year like no other.

“Perhaps the most resounding lesson that we can take away from this year is that we can always adapt to the situation in which we are thrown,” Gaitonde said.

“Today we celebrate the conclusion of one of Clarke’s most challenging years,” said Guo. “My fellow graduates, you fought through two of the most arduous and demanding academic years in history and absolutely excelled.”

Following the graduates’ addresses, Card and Board of Education President Matthew Melnick each spoke. Card echoed the sentiments of the students, acknowledging the perseverance required by students to successfully complete the 2020-21 school year.

“You are the class we have been waiting and hoping for, the class that will change the world because of your experience,” Card said. “You have triumphed over the last 13 years with us, and the past 15 months have tested you and you have emerged stronger than ever.”

The presentation of diplomas followed, with each student being called by name to be recognized for their successful completion of high school. As the students began their recession from the field after receiving their diplomas, the crowd roared with applause for the new W.T. Clarke High School alumni.