More than 225 students made the official transition to adulthood at the high school’s commencement exercise for the Class of 2015.

In front of family members, friends, faculty and administrators gathered on the football field on June 27, the graduating class moved their tassels and tossed their caps into the air before they walked off the field for the last time in their high school career.

The commencement featured a processional of the graduates walking out to “Pomp and Circumstance” played by the high school’s symphonic band, and the presentation of colors by members of the local VFW and American Legion posts.

Amityville High School’s outgoing interim principal, Dr. Mary DeRose and Superintendent Dr. Mary Kelly both addressed the students as they sat in rows before the grandstand. Dr. DeRose called out individual students for their contribution to the school’s climate of talent and character. Dr. Kelly supplied words of encouragement and urged students to pursue their passions and continue to develop characteristics that change the world.

After a musical interlude by the symphonic band (featuring some seniors making their last performance with the band), salutatorian Alexyss Robinson addressed her graduating classmates. Robinson quoted from civil rights leader Malcolm X, emphasizing the importance of education as a path to success and to building a better future.

Valedictorian Yundai Hu followed Robinson’s address, echoing her sentiments that education will lead to many accomplishments down the road.

“Wherever we come from,” she said. “Whatever our race or gender…we can go on to do great things. Class of 2015: good luck!”

Senior Advisor Cara Garofalo and class president Ahliyah Hunter also spoke to the class just before the presentation of diplomas.

Amityville Board President Lisa Johnson officially presented the Class of 2015 as having completed their requirements for graduation. Each student was then called up by name to receive their diploma.