ELDRED, NY — The rain didn’t dampen the elation of the 41 students as their families and friends witnessed their receiving of their diplomas in the gymnasium of the Eldred Junior-Senior High School on June 23.

The program was emceed by Principal Virginia Keegan.

Salutatorian Joseph Santoro, who will continue his studies at Rochester Institute of Technology, expressed thanks to family, teachers, administrators and coaches for their unwavering support. He said that because the graduating class is small, all the students knew each other and that despite occasional adversity they were all connected. He thanked the teachers for making the class not just better educated but better people.

Superintendent Dr. John Morgano challenged each member of the class of 2018 to be that special person who makes people say “Wow!” and to be a contributor more than a receiver. Further, he said, “I have come to know many of you and you are great kids and some of the most polite and respectful young adults I’ve had the pleasure to know.”

Highland Town Board member Kaitlin Haas began her commencement address by acknowledging that she stood between the graduates and celebration accoutrements such as barbeques, pool parties and six-foot subs, and promised to be brief. She said, “You are defined by the manner in which you face challenges, and you are well prepared to face those challenges, whatever they may be. Some graduates will stay close by, and others can’t wait to leave, but regardless of where you end up, Eldred is a part of you.” She admonished them, “Do what makes you happy. Take a risk. Hold the door open for the person behind you. Have good manners. Life is a series of small choices pieced together.”

Valedictorian Kim Gonzalez is headed to SUNY-Binghamton. She began her address by saying, “We are the best-looking, the smartest, and the most established graduating class.” Stating that each member brought a unique gift to the class, she then recognized her classmates by name while relating a contribution made by each, her speech being interrupted repeatedly by laughter or cheers from the audience.

Faculty member Josh Glantz was chosen by the class of 2018 to have the honor of reading the names of the graduates. The diplomas were conferred by Superintendent Morgano and school board president Carol Bliefernich.

Of the 41 graduates, 16 plan to attend SUNY Sullivan or SUNY Orange, seven will be at other SUNY colleges or universities, 11 will attend other universities or places of higher learning, six plan to enter the working world and one will join the U.S. Army.