Two PBHS students complete the Class of 2025 in a moving summer graduation

We can now close the book on the Pine Bush High School Class of 2025!

Congratulations to Thomas Ix-Burris and Jamil Sneed who earned their diplomas on Thursday, Aug. 21. Thomas was in attendance at the ceremony, while Jamil was attending SUNY Morrisville. Thomas was cheered by his friends and family members, as well as school and district officials.

A man stands at a podium talking. Next to him is a young man with long dark hair, wearing a blue cap and gown.

Pine Bush High School Assistant Principal Daniel Wargo greeted Thomas and those attending and congratulated him and Jamil on their accomplishment this summer.

Pine Bush High School Principal Aaron Hopmayer fervently praised the students for their efforts and gave a shout out to Colleen Huff who worked with Thomas this summer.

“I saw this man here every day and I’m going to tell you, I could not be prouder,” said Mr. Hopmayer, referring to Thomas. “In fact, I’ve been here 24 years and this might be the best summer school graduation I ever attended and it’s because of this young man.”

Principal Hopmayer congratulated Jamil and Thomas on the hard work they put in to earn their diploma. He thanked the families and Ms. Huff, noting that it all made such a difference.

Jamil is attending SUNY Morrisville and Thomas will be attending trade school.

Superintendent Joe Lenz was enthusiastic in his recognition of the two graduates.

a man stands at a podium speaking. There is another man on the left and a young man in a blue cap and gown. On his right is a woman clapping.

“This is no small accomplishment,” said Mr. Lenz. “In fact, graduating during the summer shows something truly remarkable about each of you. It shows your grit, your resilience and your character. It wasn’t always easy, but you made the choice to keep going. And that choice is what brought you here. Remember that as you go out in the world because you will meet other obstacles that you will be able to overcome with the same determination.

“As you leave Pine Bush High School and step into your future, I hope you carry this achievement with pride,” Mr. Lenz continued. “You’ve proven that you can overcome obstacles, rise to challenges and finish strong.”

A group of five people stand together smiling. From left, a man in a suit and tie smiling, a young man wearing a blue cap and gown, a woman in a white shirt, a man in blue shirt and khaki pants, and a woman in a blue shirt and jeans. They are all smiling.

Thomas and his family, along with Mr. Lenz, Mr. Hopmayer, Mr. Wargo, and school board member Dori Johnson celebrated afterward with cupcakes, taking pictures and relishing the moment!

A young man in a blue cap and gown smiles and holds his diploma. On either side is a man and woman. They are also smiling.

Congratulations to Thomas and Jamil and all of our Pine Bush High School Class of 2025 graduates. Your futures are so bright!

A young man in a blue cap and gown hugs a woman.

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Two PBHS students complete the Class of 2025 in a moving summer graduation