FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact
Vashon Lamont Hill, Chief of Marketing and Communications
Email: vhill@plainfield.k12.nj.us
Phone Number: (908) 731-4442 (Office) or (908) 591-1402 (Mobile)
PLAINFIELD, NJ – June 24, 2025 – It was a day filled with pride, reflection, and celebration as Plainfield Public Schools honored the graduating Class of 2025. On a bright and sunny Tuesday, June 23, the sounds of “Pomp and Circumstance” echoed through the Hub Stine Sports Complex as approximately 614 graduates from Plainfield High School, Plainfield Academy for the Arts and Advanced Studies (PAAAS), and Pinnacle Academy High School crossed the field—symbolically stepping over the iconic Plainfield Cardinal one final time.
For many students, this milestone marked the culmination of a journey that began with kindergarten moving-up ceremonies and continued through years of growth, perseverance, and personal discovery. It was also a moment to reflect on how far they had come, especially having begun their high school experience during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic—a time of virtual learning, uncertainty, and isolation. Yet, they emerged stronger, more adaptable, and more united than ever before.
“Good morning, distinguished guests, families, and most importantly the graduating Class of 2025,” said Deputy Superintendent and Chief of School Management Mark A. Williams, Ed. D. “Today marks not just the end of your journey through Plainfield Public Schools, but the beginning of your next chapter. Each of you has demonstrated perseverance and courage. You have overcome obstacles, made meaningful contributions, and inspired those around you.”
The ceremony opened with powerful renditions of the Star-Spangled Banner and the Black National Anthem, followed by stirring speeches from the valedictorians and salutatorian of each high school.
Melissa Canahui, Valedictorian of Plainfield High School, shared: “It is with deep gratitude and pride that I stand before the Class of 2025. Today, we don’t just close a chapter—we honor the journey that shaped us. As we step into the future, I have no doubt that each of us will rise to greatness, fueled by the lessons we've learned and the strength we’ve gained along the way.”
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PAAAS Valedictorian Natalie Portillo-Menjivar brought humor and heart to the moment, saying, “We entered high school seeing new faces. Well, technically, new foreheads and eyes. Our first impressions were all about guessing smiles—but today we’re leaving with our true selves shining.”
Kylel Cooper, the Pinnacle Academy Distinguished Student, added: “The challenges and setbacks taught us to keep going. To our families—thank you for being our foundation. You’ve been our biggest supporters.”
Board of Education President Hanae M. Wyatt delivered a passionate charge to the graduating class. “As you step into your next chapter—whether it’s college, the workforce, military, or entrepreneurship—I challenge you to carry these four E’s with you: Empowerment, Equity, Excellence, and Exposure. Not just as words, but as a way of life. Use your voice—it is your greatest weapon. Speak up when it’s right, even when it’s hard. Especially when it is hard.”
She continued, “The world isn’t ready—but it better get ready—because here comes the Class of 2025. Step into your power, your purpose, and your truth. Go out and make history.”
Superintendent of Schools Rashon K. Hasan, Ed. S., closed the beginning of the ceremony with a message of hope, purpose, and challenge. “Graduates, today you stand at a powerful threshold. You are closing one chapter filled with lessons, memories, and triumph—and stepping boldly into the next, full of promise and possibility,” he said. “You’ve navigated challenges many before you never faced—technology, a global pandemic, social shifts—and you stayed focused and grew stronger.”
“Are you prepared?” he asked the class. “Even when no one is watching? Because your voice, your talent, your leadership is needed now more than ever. Our world needs your creativity, your courage, and your compassion. You are the architects of a better tomorrow.”
As graduates turned their tassels, tears, cheers, and applause filled the stadium. Superintendent Hasan gave his final words: “Congratulations, Class of 2025! It’s your time to rise, shine, and go forward. And remember—Plainfield Public Schools made you.”
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For more information on the Plainfield Public School District or this story, please contact the Office of Marketing and Communications at information@plainfield.k12.nj.us or by phone at, (908) 731-4442.