The Floyd Academy held its mid-year graduation ceremony, recognizing 15 students who completed their high school requirements and became the first graduates of the Class of 2025. The event was attended by graduates' families, friends, faculty, staff, administrators, Board of Education members, and mentorship partners from Stony Brook University and Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Long Island.
Principal John DeBenedetto addressed the graduates during the ceremony. “Today we are acknowledging your success – you are a success story,” he said. He emphasized the importance of having a vision and working hard to achieve one's goals.
During the ceremony, each graduate was invited to receive their certificate while Mr. DeBenedetto shared personalized highlights about them and their future plans. These plans include attending trade schools or college, joining the workforce, pursuing nursing careers, or enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corps. Mid-year graduates also have the opportunity to participate in June's commencement with the full Class of 2025.
Mr. DeBenedetto expressed his excitement for the graduates' futures: “We are excited for your future – we have witnessed you grow and mature.” He noted that students now possess a new foundation to help them reach their goals.
The graduates honored were Nicholas Allison, Melvin Amaya, Jaden Braun, Diana Gonzalez, Adrianna Hernandez, Nahzavia Jasper, Darian Manzolillo, Matthew McAlonen, Alexis Montanez, Isabella Papaccio, Hannah Perrone, Alif Rahman, Nevaeh Ringgold, Kelvin Rodas Garcia and Caiden Wilkerson.
Congratulations were extended to this year's mid-year graduates as they embark on their next endeavors.