Somers High School awards diplomas to Class of 2025 at commencement ceremony

Somers High School held its commencement for the Class of 2025, where district and school leaders certified the graduates and student speakers reflected on memories and future paths.

At the ceremony, Pete Rodriguez, principal of Somers High School, opened the event and thanked staff and volunteers for preparing the ceremony and supporting seniors. "It is both my honor and privilege to welcome you all here tonight as we gather to celebrate this outstanding class," Rodriguez said. Amanda Kandel, president of the Somers Board of Education, addressed graduates and urged them to follow their passions. "Let curiosity guide your steps," Kandel told the audience.

The formal certification was made on stage: Harry Lefever, interim superintendent of schools, and Amanda Kandel publicly declared that the students had met graduation requirements set by the commissioner of education of the State of New York. Lefever said, "Graduates, congratulations. You've reached a major milestone." Kandel then announced the board's certification and declaration of the Class of 2025 as graduates of Somers High School.

Student speakers framed the ceremony's tone. Salutatorian Sarah Hanford urged classmates to value the small, candid moments of high school and to "be present in the life we're living now, not just the life we're working towards." Valedictorian Natalia Telles thanked families and noted the class's diverse backgrounds, listing countries of origin represented among students and celebrating community ties: "No matter what language you speak, no matter where you're from, today is a day of gratitude and happiness." Class president Sydney Karnow led the traditional tassel-turning ceremony that marked the official close of the students' high school chapter.

District and school leaders used the event to highlight student accomplishment across academics, arts and athletics. Lefever noted that six seniors from a team of 11 were selected as finalists for the Genius Olympiad at Rochester Institute of Technology and that one senior advanced to the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair. He also reported state-level athletic successes, and that 12 graduates earned the New York State seal of biliteracy while 13 students pursued the International Baccalaureate diploma.

The ceremony included musical performances by the Somers High School Symphonic Band, directed by Terry Reynolds, and the senior concert choir under Bobby Evcianik. Principal Rodriguez recognized individual staff and volunteers, including facilities director Chris McCartney and head custodian Alex Mishai, and noted the retirement of Laura Begliante.

The event concluded with the presentation of graduates by name and the class president leading the tassel-turning. The district and school leaders congratulated students and families and encouraged graduates to pursue their next steps with curiosity and community focus.