Malden High School celebrates Class of 2025; leaders urge perseverance and community service

Malden High School’s Class of 2025 received diplomas at a graduation ceremony on the school field, where Mayor Gary Christiansen, Superintendent Dr. Timothy Sippel and Principal Mr. Mastroangelo addressed students and families.

The ceremony highlighted academic achievement, community service and advice for graduates. Mayor Gary Christiansen told students, “I not only want to congratulate you, Malden High School Class of 2025, but I also want to thank you for inviting me here today.” Superintendent Dr. Timothy Sippel called out three qualities—priorities, perseverance and partnership—saying, “Class of 2025, you’ve earned this moment.”

Principal Mr. Mastroangelo noted academic results for the class: at one point he said “the 430 students that are sitting in front of me,” and later referenced “our graduating class of 460 students.” He also said, “129 of our graduates earned a GPA of 4 or better,” and that “over 50% of our graduates earned a GPA of 3 or better.” Those numbers were presented from the stage during the ceremony.

Student voices were a central part of the program. Senior orator Kathleen Yick, salutatorian Haley Tran and valedictorian Zi Wing Wang each spoke about perseverance and gratitude; Class President Christina Anestahl urged classmates to "remember the lessons Malden has taught you, to get back on your feet, rely on your community, and believe in yourself." Several student remarks were aimed at thanking families, teachers and coaches who supported them.

Alumni and community groups participated: Greg Lucey represented Malden High School Scholarship Inc. and announced the group’s scholarship awards (see related article). The ceremony also recognized students committing to military service and those who earned the Seal of Biliteracy.

After remarks and presentations, graduates were presented their diplomas and moved their tassels from right to left to mark the conferral of degrees. Principal Mastroangelo invited Superintendent Sippel and Mayor Christiansen to assist in the diploma presentation. The ceremony concluded with the formal presentation of the graduating class to the audience.

Selected program notes: the Malden High School chorus and band performed the national anthem and other pieces; class advisors Mr. Grinnell and Ms. Brass joined staff onstage to shake hands with graduates.