The Sachem High School East Class of 2013 tossed their caps into the air and stood on the football field for the last time as students on Friday night.
The more than 500 graduating students received their diplomas in front of a packed crowd of supporters.
Principal Louis Antonetti kicked off the ceremony with his first commencement speech.
"Don't be afraid to live in the moment," Antonetti said, urging students not to miss out on life by capturing everything on their cellphone. "If you fall, fall forward. Every setback is an opportunity for a comeback."
Sen. Charles Schumer was on hand to address the graduates as well.
Valedictorian Olivia Lattanza delivered a speech to her classmates, reminding the class that they were embarking on a new chapter.
"Don't forget to take the time to be happy," said Danielle Nigro, class president just before leading the class in the tassel ceremony.
"Who people become is far more important than what people become," said Superintendent James Nolan.
Patch will have more coverage of the ceremony in the days to come.
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