POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. – Last Wednesday marked a proud milestone for Poughkeepsie High School as 24 students received their diplomas during the Summer Graduation Ceremony, setting a record for the school’s summer session.
A Celebration of Perseverance
The ceremony, held inside the school gymnasium, drew family, friends, and faculty who gathered to cheer on the graduates. With the addition of the summer class, a total of 191 students have graduated from Poughkeepsie High School over the last two months, including those who walked during June’s commencement.
Co-Summer Principal Joseph Mazzetti presided over the event, while Superintendent of Schools Gregory Mott delivered heartfelt remarks to the graduating class. Counselor Stacey Lee announced each student’s name as they crossed the floor to accept their diploma and share handshakes—or hugs—with Principal Dr. Phee Simpson, Mazzetti, and Mott.
Superintendent’s Message
Superintendent Mott praised the students for their determination to see the journey through, even when the timing wasn’t traditional.
“It’s more meaningful for me to see each of you sitting there today because it’s sometimes easier not to go through the process,” Mott said. “It’s easy to not persevere. It’s easy to say, ‘I’m not going to attend my August graduation,’ but you sit to be honored; to be recognized.”
Mott reminded the class that their persistence sets them apart.
“You’ve demonstrated that no matter what, you can overcome,” he continued. “It doesn’t matter the timing. When the timing is right, it’s your time. And at this moment, it’s your time. So, congratulations to you, and best of luck.”
A Community Effort
The summer program provides students with an opportunity to complete their coursework, retake exams, and fulfill graduation requirements. For many, the August ceremony represents not just academic success, but resilience, family support, and the guidance of teachers and counselors who helped them cross the finish line.
Principal Dr. Simpson and the faculty emphasized that the record number of summer graduates reflects both the determination of the students and the school’s commitment to ensuring every student has the resources to succeed.
A Joyful Conclusion
After the formal ceremony, the gymnasium transformed into a space of celebration. Graduates posed for photos in caps and gowns, embraced loved ones, and exchanged congratulations with classmates and teachers. Families gathered to share in light refreshments, capturing memories of a day that highlighted achievement against the odds.
For the graduates, the ceremony marked not only the completion of high school but the beginning of a new chapter—whether in college, the workforce, or other personal goals. For the Poughkeepsie community, it was a reminder of the power of persistence and the importance of providing second chances.
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