Beacon grad: 'It's kind of crazy how fast life goes by'

They’re off to college and to work, with dreams of becoming fashion designers, police officers and forensic investigators.

But first, they had another concern in mind — making sure they didn't trip over their graduation gowns.

"It doesn't feel real," said Yuiza Figueroa, who, along with about 219 classmates, graduated from Beacon High School Saturday. "Celebrating all the hard work...being able to do it with your family (watching)."

"I'm really nervous... anxious," said graduating senior Kaprice McCray. "I hope I don't trip."

"That's the main thing to remember," Figueroa added. "Not to trip."

Dutchess Stadium was packed with loved ones and supporters of the Beacon High School class of 2016 Saturday morning.

Both young women are off to college in the fall — Figueroa to study forensic investigating and McCray to study fashion design.

Jimmy Diaz wants to be a police officer.

"I'm a little nervous but it's exciting," Diaz said of graduation day. "It's kind of crazy how fast life goes by."

Beacon High School Principal Joannes Sieverding lauded the class for its accomplishments.

"This is the third year in a row we've exceeded New York state standards for graduation rates... and continue to be a school in good standing," Sieverding said.

Senior Class President Abby Antalek spoke to fellow graduates about remembering the good times they've had together.

"I probably won't see most of you again, but you have all contributed to the person I am today," Antalek told her classmates.

Nina Schutzman: nschutzman@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-451-4518, Twitter: @pojonschutzman

Honors:

Valedictorian: Rachael Ng

Salutatorian: Paige Baisley