Pine-Richland Celebrates Commencement with 374 Students

June 9, 2025

Pine-Richland celebrated the commencement of 374 seniors on Saturday, June 7. The ceremony included a performance of the Pine-Richland Alma Mater by senior choir members followed by introductory remarks from Dr. Frank Hernandez, principal of Pine-Richland High School.

We continued the tradition of the PR Family Photo to capture our entire graduating class and their friends, family, administrators and teachers in one photograph. See the full-size image here »

Ten students spoke, offering reflection and advice, demonstrating vulnerability, personal growth, resiliency, engagement, and diversity in academic paths and extra-curricular activities, a true representation of Pine-Richland's mission, vision and values.

In addition to our student speakers and faculty representative, Mr. Marc Casciani, treasurer of the school board, spoke about the preciousness of time and encouraged those in attendance to reflect on their own unique value and those who have encouraged the good in all of us.

Student Government Executive Vice President Kylie Schneck delivered the student welcome message. Senior Class President Jacob Pazin introduced the Class of 2037 speakers and presented a donation to each school's library from the Class of 2025. Our kindergarten representatives Ella, Jacob and Daveena gave our graduates smart advice for how to spend their time this summer. Class tertiary Heath Cwynar, salutatorian Aris Kralios, and valedictorian Timothy Peng reflected on their experiences at Pine-Richland and talked about the importance of community and their hopes for the Class of 2025. Senior Class Vice President Anna Karmanos introduced Mrs. Elissa Mitchell, English language arts teacher, who was elected by the Class of 2025 to be the faculty speaker at graduation. Finally, Student Government Executive President Erin Murray delivered the farewell and led graduates in the turning of their tassels.