Glen Cove City School District Celebrates the High School Class of 2024

The Glen Cove City School District proudly congratulates the Glen Cove High School Class of 2024 graduates and their families who attended the 2024 Commencement Ceremony. The event was filled with inspiring speeches, musical performances, and celebration.

Thank you to Senior Class President Ava Scagliola for leading the Pledge of Allegiance, and the Concert Choir, directed by Edward Norris, for performing the National Anthem. “Pomp and Circumstance” was performed by the High School Band directed by Brittney Frank Rifkind and the Orchestra directed by James Guarini. 

Special thanks to Principal Allen Hudson III, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Maria L. Rianna, and Board of Education President Maria Elena Venuto for their inspiring speeches to the graduating seniors.

Dr. Rianna congratulated the class of 2024 saying, “You are the author of your life's new chapter, ready to pursue your dreams in work, college, or career with faith and preparation, as you create your own story.”

Maria Venuto expressed, "We are proud of all of you. This community supports you and takes pride in your accomplishments. You have persevered through many obstacles." Ms. Venuto thanked Ava Scagliola for representing the Class of 2024 on the Board of Education. Ava conveyed a positive message during Board meetings, effectively representing the students of Glen Cove. "Congratulations to all our graduates; today is a day of celebration."

Salutatorian Jaida Ciampi reminisced about school memories and encouraged her peers to  embrace change, expressing gratitude for their diverse community and the supportive Glen Cove staff. She particularly thanked the music department, which she called her second home and her family for their endless support. 

Honorarian Victoria Baboolal delivered an emotional speech thanking her family for their inspiration and sacrifices. Faculty speaker Christian Dottin, chosen by the students, gave a humorous and memorable speech, encouraging everyone to make their mark on the world, concluding with an inspiring quote from Notorious B.I.G.: “Stay far from timid, only make moves when your heart’s in it, and live the phrase, 'the sky’s the limit.'”

Student body president Ava Scagliola congratulated her classmates for their unique and special community, highlighting their sense of pride, diverse backgrounds, and accepting environment. She expressed gratitude to her family and teachers for their support.

Valedictorian Virginia Graziosi encouraged her classmates to embrace life’s challenges as they often lead to unexpected opportunities and greater achievements. "This is just the beginning," she said. "Our future is vast and full of potential, so make the next part of your life the best part of your life."

The Glen Cove High School Concert Choir performed a beautiful rendition of “You’ll Be In My Heart.” Principal Allen Hudson III then presented the Class of 2024. Following this, Dr. Rianna officially conferred the high school diplomas with Katie Prudente and Herenia Padialla calling each senior to the podium to receive their diploma.  Maria Venuto delivered the Declaration of Graduation and Valedictorian Virginia Graziosi led the turning of the tassel ceremony, which concluded with applause and the tossing of caps! The Recessional was performed by the Glen Cove High School Orchestra directed by James Guarini and Band directed by Brittney Frank Rifkind. 

Once again, congratulations to the Glen Cove High School Class of 2024. Your hard work and dedication have paid off, and we can't wait to see what the future holds for you all!

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