Series of unlucky events didn’t stop Steinert graduates
by David Kilby, Special Writer
TRENTON — If one were to say that Steinert High School’s Class of 2013 was unlucky, they would most likely be called superstitious. But after considering all that the class had to endure before getting to their graduation, that superstition may have some merit.
Despite a devastating hurricane, a gas leak and some mold growing in the high school, all during the class’ senior year, its members still accomplished much on their road to that night, the 55th commencement ceremony of Hamilton High School East, Joseph Steinert Memorial, June 20 at the Sun National Bank Center.
For instance, Dr. James Parla, superintendent of the Hamilton Township School District, affirmed that accomplishment, saying that due to the Steinert student government’s persistence, the district was convinced to listen to what the students said they needed.
In his remarks, graduate and student government president D’Jalma Lopez also referred to his classmates’ accomplishments.
”Let us rejoice in our individual achievements,” Mr. Lopez said. “Whether you made that winning touchdown or sung at the top of your lungs at that concert, be proud of yourself. In a time when the government seems unresponsive to the people we made it respond to us. One can be certain that the American spirit is still alive within us.
”I hope that one day we cross paths and support each other. It is with a heavy heart and a weary spirit that I say goodbye to you. God bless you all and God bless America,” Lopez added.Salutatorian Lauren Matrisciano said her class got through a great deal, including the aforementioned weather and facility issues without suffering a single scratch.
”We’ve proven that the class of 2013 is not easily shaken,” Ms. Matrisciano said.
”Whether you’re furthering your education, entering the workforce, or joining the brave men and women serving to protect our country,” she said, “Remember this: ‘Do not strive to be first, but rather be the first to strive.’ The place you finish is irrelevant. What matters most is the lives you change and the goals you achieve along the way.”
She said as Spartans they will remember the times when they truly felt invincible. For the cheerleaders that time was placing second in nationals. For the wrestling team it was securing the fifth consecutive Colonial Valley Conference championship. For the football team, it was the state championship last year.
”Starting something new is always going to be scary, but exciting at the same time,” she continued. “Don’t wait for inspiration or passion to find you, but go out and explore. Find yourself and strive toward your dreams. Seize opportunity and stand confidently in the face of adversity.”
After her speech, Dylan Creese of the graduating class led his fellow classmates in the singing of “Thirteen Years”.
To begin her speech, Valedictorian Stephanie Liffland said she is no different than any senior in the arena.
Ms. Liffland quoted young adult fiction writer John Green, who said “One day, you’re 17 and you’re planning for someday. And then quietly, without you ever really noticing, someday is today. And then someday is yesterday. And this is your life.”
She then added, “For all the graduates in this room, that someday is today. Once we exit this building, our someday will be yesterday. Time will go on whether we’re ready for it or not.
”Try new things simply because you can,” she continued. “Do what you love simply because you love to do it. Explore your passions, make mistakes and learn from them.”
”Thirteen is generally considered an unlucky number, and our class has been through a lot. Whether it was sitting in the football field for two hours in the cold and wind, or evacuating during and after the school day, including in the snow, this school year has been full of surprises,” she said. “Despite our unlucky status as the class of 2013, we have survived and are now sitting here ready to graduate.”
As insightful as each speech was, most would agree that none were as entertaining as that of Senior Class President Gina Migliaccio.
”The day that seemed so far away is finally here,” Ms. Migliaccio exclaimed to her classmates. “Take in this moment, please. Look to your friends, your parents. You only graduate (from high school) once.”
She read a definition of a Spartan from the dictionary, adding her own modifications, saying “A Spartan is rigorously self-disciplined, austere, courageous in the face of danger, adversity, fire drills, gas leaks, Hurricane Sandys, mold, etc. “We are heroes in the truest sense of the word,” she added. “In the future, Spartans, prepare for glory because Spartans never retreat. Spartans never surrender.”
Her speech was received with lively applause as she introduced Principal Kelly Mattis who presented the class to the Board of Education.
Along with commending the senior class and specifically congratulating the salutatorian and valedictorian, Mrs. Mattis congratulated two students who had perfect attendance from kindergarten through 12th grade, Timothy Amison and Marco Marchetti.
”To graduate from Steinert High School holds tremendous honor and weight, and you deserve it,” she said. “Choose to be a winner. The class of 2013 is a class of winners, and we will miss you.”
Dr. Parla addressed the class of 378 students as the anticipation of the graduation candidates grew.
He said 85 percent of them are going to college, adding “about half of the graduates will be attending Mercer County Community College, and to that I say bravo. Both New York and New Jersey have the best community college systems in the world. You’re going to find a great education there and you’re going to save your parents a lot of money.”
He then gave special thanks to a small group of graduates: Jonathan Bussi, Robert Condon, Nicole Davicsin, Jesse Evert, Sabastian Morales, Paulo Rodriguez, Clark Sabo, Ryan Shaw and Dakota Zacheis, who decided to join the military to “serve our country and protect our freedom.”
”Don’t follow the false illusion of money,” he advised, as he continued addressing the whole class. “Pursue your dreams. It’s important you do something you have a passion for doing and something that will help society.”
He also told them that once they’re out on their own to not forget to “call home once in a while, and not just when you need money.”
Board President Jeff Hewitson gave the excited graduates a quick portent regarding the road ahead of them.
”Your actions will have consequences,” he said. “They will not only affect you, but they’ll also affect your friends and family. After you receive your diplomas today, go with your friends and family and celebrate.”
He then awarded the diplomas to the class. Graduates Prita Sinhas and Brenton Tucillo then sang the Steinert Alma Mater, written by Reid Hausch, ‘61, and Arthur Frank.
Ms. Migliaccio then led the class in the Turning of Tassels, and the Steinert Class of 2013 were then officially high school graduates.