STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. – The Gaynor McCown Expeditionary High School held its commencement ceremony on Wednesday as 130 students walked across the stage for their diplomas inside of the school’s auditorium in New Springville.
The keynote speaker was Lora Panepinto, a recent graduate from the class of 2023.
“When you all get your diploma today, take a look at it closely,” said Panepinto. “It’s a culmination of all your work these last four years. But it’s also something much greater than that. It’s a symbol for growth; the friends you’ve made, the things you’ve overcome and the faculty that supported you on this journey.”
The valedictorian was Sharon Gao…