THE CLASS OF 2017 BACCALAUREATE EXERCISES

The farewell to the Class of 2017 began Monday, June 19, with the Baccalaureate Exercises in the school auditorium.

The JROTC Colorguard opened the ceremonies to the traditional “Pomp and Circumstance” and Class President Brianna Cabrera led in the Pledge of Allegiance. Directed by Victor Izzo III, the Chamber Choir performed John Lennon’s “Imagine,” and the Senior Ensemble brought it home with a selection from the “High School Musical.”

Baccalaureate addresses were presented by Joseph Flaherty, president of the Board of Education; Brian C. Monahan, superintendent of schools; Eileen Cook, math teacher; the Rev. Dr. Albert Potgieter, class parent—and senior Jack Golden.

HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER CONSTRUCTION: ATHLETIC FACILITIES AND OVERALL ACCESS

As previously announced, construction work at Minisink Valley High School will begin right after graduation and result in the closure of our aquatics facility for the summer months.

High school Route 6 entrance and all high school parking areas:

─Closed to the public June 24 through September 1.

Continue reading for information regarding access and parking instructions for track and tennis courts during the summer.

CLASS OF 2017: ACADEMIC AWARDS NIGHT

Minisink Valley High School 2016-17 academic awards ceremony took place on June 7, in the school auditorium.

School administrators, teachers and community members representing local organizations recognized seniors for their academic achievements and presented over 50 awards and scholarships.

CLASS OF 2017 BACCALAUREATE: TONIGHT, MONDAY, JUNE 19, AT 7PM

Minisink Valley High School will host the Class of 2017 Baccalaureate tonight, at 7 p.m. A parent, teacher and senior-speaker will address our seniors. Refreshments will be served after the ceremony.

—Instructions for Graduating Students: Wear cap and gown, with green and white tassel. • Arrive at 6 p.m. and gather in the school cafeteria. 

—Photography: Mrs. Hoolan, with the help of the MVHS PTO, will be taking photos of the seniors in their cap and gown—a wonderful keepsake. Each student will receive one 5"x7" print, as a gift from Mrs. Hoolan and the PTO. • Photo packages are also available for purchase, as a fundraiser. Contact PTO co-chair, Simone Demberg, for more information: simonedemberg@yahoo.com

TWO MVHS STUDENTS HONORED BY SENATOR BONACIC AT ANNUAL EVENT

MHVS Class of 2017 Valedictorian Bridget Wiley and Salutatorian Erin Clifford were recognized by NYS Senator John Bonacic at the “Excellence in Education” event on June 8. Held in Albany, this annual ceremony honors valedictorians and salutatorians from the 23 high schools in the 42nd Senate District.

“These students are some of the best and brightest New York State has to offer,” said Senator Bonacic. “Each of these students excels because of their hard work and dedication to their studies, their peers, and their community. They have the qualities to be the future leaders of America and I am proud of each and every one of them and their accomplishments.”

STRONG SECOND YEAR FOR CHRIS CORWIN SCHOLARSHIP CAR SHOW

Thanks to scores of volunteers and supporters, the second annual Chris Corwin Scholarship Car Show on June 12 attracted over 200 vehicles to the middle school grounds, and raised $9,000.

“We are very grateful to everyone who came out to support our Car Show on Monday. The success of the event and the outstanding fundraising results just wouldn't be possible without the backing and the participation of our generous community. We really appreciate it,” said Rich Budd, a middle school technology teacher and an event organizer.

The Chris Corwin Scholarship Fund was created in memory of a beloved Minisink Valley Middle School technology teacher.

JROTC AND BOCES STUDENTS FLY THE FLAG HIGH

By Heather Heinen
Public Affairs Officer, MVHS Warrior Battalion

If you’ve seen her fly high above Minisink’s main campus, that’s thanks to a partnership between period-1 JROTC cadets and students in the BOCES program.

For the second consecutive year, every Friday they have gathered around the flagpole, next to the high school’s main entrance, to raise and fly the American flag for the school community. This collaboration promotes teamwork and trust among involved students, and helps develop a sense of national pride and citizenship. (Additional photos)

MVHS CHORUS STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN RELAY FOR LIFE AND HELP RAISE THOUSANDS

Members of Minisink’s Chamber Choir participated in the annual American Cancer Society Relay for Life at the Goshen High School on Saturday, June 10.

Minisink’s chorus program sponsored the relay team, “Walk With Caitlin, Fly With Juliette,” in memory of Caitlin Hammaren, Class of 2005, and Juliette Lia, Class of 2008. Over 100 Minisink participants walked alongside cancer survivors, caregivers, volunteers, and community members.

During a luminary ceremony, our Chamber Choir offered a moving performance of the Pentatonix arrangements of “Imagine” and “Light In The Hallway.”

NYS EXCELSIOR SCHOLARSHIP MAKES COLLEGE POSSIBLE FOR LOW/MIDDLE INCOME STUDENTS: APPLY BY JULY 21

Application for the New York State Excelsior Scholarship -- the nation's first tuition-free degree program for full time students -- is now open.

SUNY and CUNY students whose families make up to $100,000 annually can now apply for tuition-free college on the Excelsior Scholarship Program website. Students must submit their applications by July 21.

Enhanced Tuition Awards of up to $6,000 are also available for resident students enrolled in a private college in New York State.

(Continue reading for complete information all relevant links)

TEN VARSITY BASEBALL PLAYERS RECOGNIZED ON SENIOR DAY

Ten seniors were recognized for their hard work and contributions to Minisink baseball and the athletics program on May 18, prior to the last regular season home game vs. the Warwick Wildcats.

Suited up one more time in the white and green uniform they made proud, the players were accompanied by family members in a ceremony attended by coaching staff, district and school administrators. JROTC presented the colors, and freshman Penny Sierra sang the national anthem.