Pine Valley graduates toss their caps in the air following Sunday ceremonies.

SOUTH DAYTON – The 77th annual commencement for Pine Valley Central School District took place Sunday in the auditorium at the junior and senior high school.

Wearing purple caps and gowns, the Class of 2025 strode into the auditorium to the processional of “Pomp and Circumstance.”

Caleb Kenna, who will study mechatronics at Jamestown Community College in the fall, led the Pledge of Allegiance before Superintendent Shanda DuClon welcomed attendees. Class President Sarah Kruszka’s message focused on growth, beauty and transformation.

“Through every memory we made for ourselves, we each grew in our own way like wildflowers,” said Kruszka, who will study physical therapy and play soccer at Gannon University in the fall. “Whether we thrived in sunshine or had to figure out how to grow in shade just to bloom, each one of us is proof that growth can happen anywhere.

Principal Kourtney Almeida then introduced salutatorian Julianna Yasurek and valedictorian Trent Ivett.

Yasurek kept her sentiments “short and sweet.”

“Who we are today is just the beginning. In 10 years, we’ll all be different people, shaped by the choices we make and the lives we lead,” said Yasurek. “I hope to keep growing as a sister, a granddaughter, a friend, and most importantly, as a human being. And I wish that same growth and fulfillment for all of you.”

Yasurek, the granddaughter of Vicky Reynolds and the cousin of Ashley Perry, both of South Dayton, will attend The State University of New York at Fredonia, where she plans to major in criminal justice. Her goal is to pursue a career that allows her to help others and make a meaningful impact in her community.

Valedictorian Ivett said it was an honor to address his peers, faculty, and parents on graduation day.

“While we all progress through our lives, I would like to remind everyone to stop and look around once and a while to take everything in,” said Ivett. “Because the time only seems to go by faster the older we get.”

Ivett, the son of Becky and Kris Ivett of South Dayton, will attend the Pennsylvania State University, where he plans to major in wildlife management. His long-term goal is to contribute to conservation efforts and sustainable management of natural resources.

The senior chorus performed “For Good,” a selection from the musical “Wicked,” accompanied by music teacher Mary Kay Himes.

Superintendent DuClon next introduced Linda Ivett Allen, the valedictorian of the Class of 1974, to deliver the commencement address. A retired engineer, Allen had a 32-year career with Lockheed Martin and now resides in Florida. Kruszka and Yasurek presented Allen with a gift of appreciation for her participation in the ceremony.

Paige Cobb, director of Special Education and Curriculum, led the presentation of awards and scholarships. Diplomas were handed out by Jeffrey Chase, president of the Board of Education, along with Superintendent DuClon and Principal Almeida.

The graduates then participated in the traditional turning of the tassels and moved their cap tassels from one side to the other. The audience rose to join them in singing the district alma mater.

Families and loved ones then gathered outdoors to watch the Class of 2025 unite one final time for a group tossing of their caps followed by celebratory photo opportunities on the campus lawn.