​Croton-Harmon’s Class of '17 Prepares for New Challenges

From CHUFSD: Croton-Harmon High School’s graduating class was offered congratulations and advice as its students prepared to take a big step in their lives on June 22.

The annual commencement ceremony began with a processional led by the Local 21 Pipes & Drums. The soon-to-be alumni said the Pledge of Allegiance as a group for the final time, led by class president Ann DiRusso, and heard the national anthem sung by classmates Sophie Bauder, Madeleine Camillieri, Ann DiRusso, Julie Smith and Sarah Van Ells.

Following DiRusso’s official welcome to the ceremony, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Edward R. Fuhrman Jr. noted the graduating class has fulfilled the tenants of the district’s mission, which calls for the development of “independent learners who are responsible for their own learning.”

He emphasized that he hopes the seniors have developed habits of mind that can help them later in life, including managing impulsivity, listening with understanding and empathy, metacognition and finding humor.

“Trust your experiences with us and welcome the new challenges you will face,” said Dr. Fuhrman. “For you see, after all is said and done you are in charge of your thinking.”

DiRusso earned a standing ovation by forgoing a speech in favor of an original song that recalled some of the class’s memories from kindergarten on. Guests later heard an original song, written by graduating senior Daniel Parker, performed by him and the school’s jazz band.

The graduates also reminisced alongside salutatorian Sarah Seidman and valedictorian Bauder, who each addressed their peers, and heard an original music composition from classmate Daniel Parker. Class advisor Daniel Delaney handed out awards for students’ participation in the C.H.O.O.S.E. program before Principal Alan J. Capasso congratulated the class and presented the graduates to Board of Education President Iris Bugliosi.

In her remarks, Bauder encouraged her peers to make positive changes in the world, something she said, she has already witnessed them do within CHHS and the greater community.

“I've seen these students go beyond the doors of this school to find ways to improve Croton and the world at large. They've led campaigns to help the environment, attended national protests, supported local organizations,” she recalled.” They’ve worked on C.H.O.O.S.E. assignments that have literally touched lives all over the world.”

The evening’s ceremony concluded with a reception for the graduates and their families, courtesy of the PTSA.

Remarked Capasso to the graduates, “I believe your education in the Croton school system has prepared you well and given you the ability to truly listen to others and work collaboratively to problem-solve. By using these skills you and your generation will be able to solve the major issues we must address if we are to remain a great country.”

Photos courtesy of the Croton-Harmon School District