The Ward Melville High School Class of 2016 received thunderous applause as they marched past proud parents, family members, friends and educators to the sounds of “Pomp and Circumstance” at this year’s graduation ceremony.

Valedictorian Jeffrey Michel and salutatorian Ariel Long reflected upon their time in the district and shared words of advice with their fellow graduates. Student Government President Joseph Hines presented the class gift of new picnic tables for the stadium, and senior David Fraas led the audience in a moving performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Both Principal Dr. Alan Baum and Board of Education President William F. Connors Jr. delivered welcome addresses and encouraged the class to strive to reach their dreams.

The students were then called individually to the dais to receive their diplomas before turning their graduation tassels in unison with the direction of class representative Amanda Franko.