MacArthur High School Sends Off The Class Of 2021

LEVITTOWN, NY — With high spirits and having overcome a year of academic adversity, General Douglas MacArthur High School graduates took their seats at Hofstra University’s James M. Shuart Stadium field on June 19 to celebrate the close of their high school years and to look forward to the future.

After class of 2021 President Nicholas Bonavita led the Pledge of Allegiance and senior choir members sang the national anthem, the school’s 60th commencement exercises invoked the spirit of excitement and resiliency as parents and friends cheered the graduates from the sidelines.

Principal Joseph Sheehan set the tone of the afternoon when he described the event as a “day full of promise.” He told the students that they should reach for challenges and that each of them controls their own destiny. Most importantly, he said to always ask the question, “What does my work say about me and my character?”

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Tonie McDonald told the graduates that they can get through anything after the year they have had. She also recognized a handful of students who would be entering the military upon graduation and thanked them for their choice to serve the country. Each of the cadets received a flag from one of the district’s classrooms so they “can take a piece of the schools” with them.

Salutatorian Matthew Fioretti spoke about adversity and the point at which quitting seems the best option. “To me, the ability to overcome adversity and to stay persistent is even more important than avoiding the adversity itself,” Matthew said. “Wherever you end up in life, remember that conquering adversity will lead you to your greatest successes.”

Nicholas Bonavita remarked that in addition to academics, high school is a lesson in humanity and that success is determined by who they become and develop as people.

During her address to the class, valedictorian Emily Zhang described human beings as being in “constant flux.” She said, “I believe that everyone has a unique role to play in life, however, these aren’t fixed positions or concrete guidelines we must follow. So, as you move forward, don’t shy away from the unknown.”

After the senior choir members sang Taylor Swift’s “Never Grow Up” and Board of Education President Peggy Marenghi presented the class of 2021, Sheehan and board trustees conferred the diplomas to the graduates as family cheered, marking their becoming of alumni of the Levittown School District.