Earl L. Vandermeulen High School Community Celebrates Graduation

PORT JEFFERSON, NY — The Earl L. Vandermeulen High School Class of 2021 received their diplomas during the 127th annual commencement exercises last Friday, as proud parents, siblings, friends, teachers, administrators and members of the board of education looked on, according to a news release.

The ceremony began with Principal Eric Haruthunian welcoming everyone, which was followed by Grace Keegan leading the Pledge of Allegiance, and valedictorian Peggy Yin performing the National Anthem.

School district officials said that “words of wisdom and congratulatory remarks on the accomplishments of the students” were offered by Schools Superintendent Jessica Schmettan, Haruthunian, and parent speaker Dr. Stephen Rabeno, the father of twin graduates Mattea and Michela Rabeno.

Dr. Rabeno shared an inspiring story of his daughters as they grew up in Port Jefferson, and referred to Robert Fulghum’s “All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten” as a reflection of “the kindness and acceptance of students in the school community,” the news release stated.

Yin and salutatorian, Massimo Cipriano, shared memories with classmates and thanked family members and teachers for “the continued encouragement for all students to succeed in the small school community,” according to the news release.

In a final nod to the graduates, Haruthunian highlighted their high school careers and plans before he was assisted by Assistant Principal Kevin Bernier in handing out the diplomas. At the end of the ceremony, the students stood and tossed their caps in the air “in celebration of becoming the newest graduates of the high school,” the news release stated.