On Thursday evening, June 26, the Farmingdale School District held its annual 8th Grade Moving-Up Ceremony for Howitt Middle School. The event took place on the school’s turf field, bringing together students, families, friends, faculty, district administrators, and members of the Board of Education in a proud celebration of the Class of 2025.

The ceremony honored the achievements of the 8th-grade students as they prepare to take the next step in their academic journey to Farmingdale High School. The program included an exceptional Howitt Middle School chorus performance, setting a festive tone for the evening.

Principal Mike Gavalas addressed the crowd, reflecting on the students’ journey and recognizing their accomplishments. He was joined by Assistant Principal Kenneth McCloud, who assisted in congratulating the graduates and supporting the presentation of certificates.

As part of the evening’s recognitions, two distinguished awards were presented to students who embody the values of the Farmingdale school community. Natalie Calderon received the Board of Education Scholarship & Citizens Award, given to a student who exemplifies character, citizenship, discipline, and leadership. Sabrina Badalamenti was honored with the Dr. Gary E. Karp Award, which recognizes a student who demonstrates a strong dedication to school and community, reflecting the spirit of service and commitment that defined Dr. Karp’s legacy.

The Farmingdale School District extends its congratulations to all the graduates and their families and looks forward to seeing the continued growth and success of the Class of 2025 as they join the ranks of Dalers at Farmingdale High School this fall.

Watch Now!! Howitt Middle School's Moving-Up Ceremony

The 2025 Woodward Parkway Moving-Up Ceremony was a heartwarming celebration of accomplishments and fresh beginnings. Students, families, and teachers gathered in the beautifully adorned auditorium at Farmingdale High School, the air filled with excitement and hope for what lies ahead.

Principal Dr. Patrick Klocek opened the ceremony with a warm and inspiring welcome. He praised the fifth graders for their leadership, compassion, and growth, acknowledging both the joys and challenges that await them in middle school. Encouraging them to "be the reason someone smiles," Dr. Klocek wished them continued success and shared his hope to see them return in seven years for their Senior Walk.

As the new middle schoolers exited the auditorium—certificates in hand and smiles beaming—they carried with them treasured memories, a deep sense of accomplishment, and the excitement of the journey ahead.

Watch Now!!! Woodward Parkway's 2025 Moving-Up Ceremony

The 2025 Saltzman East Memorial Moving-Up Ceremony was a joyful celebration of achievements and new beginnings. Students, teachers, and families gathered in the beautifully decorated SEM auditorium, filled with excitement and anticipation for the future.

Principal Dr. Tricia O’Regan opened the ceremony with a heartfelt welcome, applauding the students for their leadership and kindness. She encouraged them to continue to ROCK—Respect Others and Celebrate Kindness—as they embark on their next chapter at Howitt Middle School.

The fifth graders then took the stage with pride and confidence, delivering a remarkable musical performance they had rehearsed for weeks. Their talent and enthusiasm captivated the audience.

As the Dalers exited the auditorium, certificates in hand and smiles on their faces, they carried with them cherished memories and a sense of accomplishment—ready to take on the exciting journey ahead.

Watch Now!!! Saltzman East Memorial's Moving-Up Ceremony 2025

The Albany Avenue 2025 Moving-Up Ceremony was a touching celebration of accomplishments and fresh starts. Students, teachers, and families came together in the festively adorned auditorium, excited and hopeful for what lies ahead.

The ceremony began with a warm welcome from Principal Joseph Valentine, who praised the students for their leadership and compassion. He recognized their efforts as mentors to the youngest Dalers and encouraged them to continue being role models as they move on to Howitt Middle School. With pride shining in their eyes, the fifth graders delivered an exceptional musical performance they had been practicing for weeks, enchanting the audience with their impressive talent.

As the Dalers exited the auditorium, they took with them certificates, treasured memories, and a feeling of achievement, ready to embrace the thrilling journey ahead.

WATCH NOW!!! Albany Avenue's 2025 Moving-Up Ceremony

Farmingdale High School Graduates Celebrate Their Achievements and Look Forward to a Future of Endless Possibilities

A wave of pride and emotion filled the David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex at Hofstra University on June 17, as the Farmingdale High School Class of 2025 marked the culmination of their academic journey in a memorable graduation ceremony.

Led by Principal Jed Herman and Superintendent of Schools Paul Defendini, the evening was a stirring tribute to the resilience, achievement, and unity of the 2025 graduating class. Families, friends, faculty, and distinguished guests celebrated the accomplishments of over 500 students who have navigated a high school experience defined by adaptability and determination.

In his opening remarks, Principal Herman applauded the graduates for their unwavering commitment to excellence and their role in shaping a vibrant and inclusive school culture. “This class has led with heart, intellect, and purpose,” he said. “They are prepared not only to face the future, but to shape it.”

Superintendent Defendini echoed those sentiments, recognizing the Farmingdale community's strength and its graduates' limitless potential. “This is a moment of celebration not just for these students, but for all who have supported them—teachers, parents, and peers. The Class of 2025 has made us proud every step of the way.”

The ceremony featured uplifting speeches by Class Valedictorian Shea Hiotidis and Salutatorian Jaylyn Umana, followed by the Farmingdale Board of Education presenting diplomas to the Class of 2025.

The evening concluded with the traditional turning of the tassels, symbolizing both an ending and a beginning, as the Farmingdale High School Class of 2025 stepped boldly into the future.

Congratulations to the Class of 2025—Go Dalers!