Graduation ceremonies will be held at the War Memorial in Trenton for the Allentown High School Class of 2014 on June 20 at 6:30 p.m. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. Parents of seniors can pick up tickets for graduation in the main office of the high school.
The theme of graduation, as selected by the students, is “Turning the Page…,” Principal Constance DeNicola Embley said.
Embley said she believes the seniors are prepared to become leaders and to take on the future.
“On behalf of the Allentown High School family, I extend sincere congratulations and best of luck to the Class of 2014,” Embley wrote as part of her planned graduation message.
“Because you have been exceptional representatives of our school community, I have no doubt that you will continue to serve as worthy ambassadors for our community by building upon your reputation for excellence.
“You have excelled in academics, in athletics, in the arts and in service to the community,” she said.
The Class of 2014 includes 297 students. The seniors selected a song, “Unwritten,” to be sung by graduating members of the school choir.
Upper Freehold Regional School District Superintendent of Schools Richard Fitzpatrick and Embley will address the seniors and their guests. Hayley Peterson, president of the Student Council, Drew Borton, valedictorian, and Thomas Buckingham, salutatorian, will also speak.
Embley said plans are in place to honor the members of the class who will serve the country in the military: Thomas W. Anzalone, Air Force; Conor F. Cadigan, Navy; Samantha Anne McComas, Army; Alexandria Leigh Crusen, Marines; Thomas Francis Maher, Army; Christian M. Chiafullo, Army; Ryan A. Smith, Army; Peter John Samper, Air National Guard; Josh Woddell, Marines; Brian Richard Tobie, U.S. Naval Academy; Veronica Angie Santiago, Marines; Chasquan T. Smith, Air Force; and James William Mottram, ROTC Air Force.
Embley said she has a great deal of pride in the seniors.
“You leave us with the best wishes of the entire community,” Embley wrote in her speech. “And to all of these good wishes, I add my own wish for your continued success and happiness. You have made me proud to be your principal. As Abraham Lincoln said, ‘The best way to predict your future is to create it.’ Make that your mission: create your future and change the world!”