Division Avenue High School graduates the Class of 2023

The perseverance and determination of Division Avenue High School’s Class of 2023 was celebrated on June 17 as seniors marked the triumphant conclusion to their educational careers in Levittown Public Schools. Loved ones packed the bleachers at the Hofstra University David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex to watch as graduates crossed the stage.

Starting off the 64th commencement, Student Council President Sofia Ferreiro led the Pledge of Allegiance, and senior members of the concert choir, under direction of Allison Sellars, sang the national anthem.

Families were welcomed by Division Principal John Coscia, who reflected on the exciting yet bittersweet day. “On one hand, I’m so excited for you and what the future has in store for you,” he said, “and I’m a little melancholy because this will be the last time ever that we are all in one room together.”

Superintendent of Schools Todd Winch encouraged graduates to always strive for the highest of achievements, but to also let your failures drive you forward. “Success does not usually happen quickly, or without setbacks,” Mr. Winch said. “Don’t be afraid of failure — embrace it, learn from it, and let it lead you on the path to future success.”

Salutatorian Yaseen Bayoumy addressed his peers and noted that while the class is moving on to bigger pursuits, the day was not a final goodbye. “While today might feel like a farewell to Division, it shouldn’t,” Yaseen said. “Today might be the last day time the entire grade is in the same place, but this class and its spirit will live on through all of us, wherever we decide to live our futures.”

Graduating seniors joined the other performers in Division’s symphonic orchestra to play “Highlights from Harry Potter” under the direction of conductor Mark Martufi.

In his address, valedictorian Aakash Veeravalli reflected on hurdles the Class of 2023 had overcome. “Although we had our ups and downs over the years, the delights and memories are all I’ll remember and reminisce about,” Aakash said. “These years really were the good old days and played a huge role into shaping us into who we are today.”

Class President Izma Akbar spoke about the gratitude felt by graduates for their surrounding community. “We are all very fortunate to have lived here,” Izma said. “You don’t realize it until it actually matters, but the Levittown School District — and even just Levittown — has provided us with more than enough opportunities to succeed.”

Board of Education President Jennifer Messina congratulated the Class of 2023 and began the conferring of diplomas. As each graduate crossed the stage, cheers rang out from the audience. A slideshow brought graduates through the many memories they have made as Division Avenue students, before senior members of the concert choir performed “The Irish Blessing.” Once tassels were turned, caps were launched into the air to symbolically mark the Class of 2023’s becoming alumni of Division Avenue.