PORT JERVIS – One-hundred-and-sixty-three Port Jervis High School seniors graduated this past weekend. Due to extensive renovations underway on Port Jervis School District’s schools and fields, the June 28th 155th commencement was held at neighboring Delaware Valley School District’s stadium, in Milford, PA.
High school Principal Anthony Lazzaro and Port Superintendent Dr. John Bell, a former superintendent at Delaware Valley, and others, praised DVSD Superintendent Dr. Brian Blaum and his district for allowing the use of their stadium and facilities.
Bell offered three words of advice to Port’s seniors in departing from the high school he himself graduated from nearly 40-years ago. Dream, plan, do.
“Dream big dreams. Turn your dreams into reality by developing concrete plans of how to get there. Don’t just talk about it – do it,” Bell advised. “If you are doubting yourself, I want to let you in on a secret. Port Jervis kids can outwork anyone!”
Lazzaro, who was the students’ middle school principal before moving up with them as principal of the high school, expressed gratitude for having been with these seniors since seventh grade and being able to get to know them well and be with them on their graduation day.
“I have watched you lift each other up and cheer each other on. You have grown to become scholars, athletes, musicians, artists, performers and explorers. Most importantly, you are a community of individuals who have heart. Find your voice and speak from your heart,” Lazzaro said. “But know, you will always have a home in Port Jervis, you will always be a Port Jervis graduate, and you will forever be a member of the Class of 2024.”
Commencement addresses were given by three seniors, Valedictorian Katarina Navarro, Class President/Salutatorian Crysti Ramos, and elected speaker Yaveth Gonzalez.
Navarro spoke of the spirit in Port’s schools, and the impact of her educational years.
