Newburgh Free Academy holds August summer graduation; assistant superintendent certifies Class of 2025

Newburgh Free Academy held a summer graduation ceremony in August where school leaders, families and roughly 90 students marked completion of their studies and were formally certified for New York State high school diplomas.

The certification was delivered by Elise Assow, assistant superintendent for instruction, who said she acted "in accordance with the authority granted to me by the New York State Board of Regents" and read candidate names aloud to declare them eligible for diplomas. The event included remarks from school leaders and a reading of graduates' names.

The ceremony recognized the Class of 2025 and emphasized perseverance and community support. Matteo Donald, who identified himself as a principal, told graduates, "Once a go back, always a go back, go back for life." Susan Valentino, a faculty member who spoke earlier in the program, quoted Nelson Mandela: "It always seems impossible until it is done."

Mister Cameron, a school staff member who addressed the crowd, said the summer program’s work produced "90" graduates this session. Robert Glowocki, identified as senior principal for the extended school year program, spoke about the graduates' determination during the ceremony.

Officials and staff distributed diplomas and provided logistical support and refreshments after the ceremony. Organizers also made food vouchers and concessions available to graduates and families following the proceedings.

Formal certification of eligibility for New York State diplomas was the primary official action at the event; there were no votes or policy decisions recorded at the ceremony.