It is with immense excitement and passion that I congratulate all of the graduates in the Irvington High School class of 2014.
Graduating from high school is one of the truly significant and memorable moments in life.
At right, Irvington HS Principal David Cohen
You should all feel a great sense of accomplishment and pride. Too often we get caught up in our daily routines and forget to reflect upon the steps we are taking. I always love graduation time because it provides a perfect opportunity to look back while simultaneously considering what lies ahead.
One piece of advice I have for you is to take some risks and explore your opportunities. There have been so many times when I speak with graduates who are afraid to follow their instincts and pursue a path because they are worried about choosing the “wrong” direction. A wise person once said, “It’s the man who waits for his ship to come in who’s always missing the boat.”
Therefore I say, do not be passive about pursuing your goals. There are many successful people who began one path, only to find a better one later on. Sometimes our failures, mistakes, and attempts give us more insight and direction than do our successes. I am always inspired by those who explore enough of life to remove the question, “What if?” when thinking about their own path.
Life is a fantastic journey and you are about to set sail for some magical times. Before you take this next step in your voyage, I encourage you to spend some time reflecting upon your high school experiences and applaud yourself for this great milestone. Also, remember to thank your family, your friends, and your teachers for providing you with constant support, encouragement, discipline, and care. Without their assistance, finding a suitable path becomes a difficult venture.
So once again, congratulations and good luck to the Irvington High School class of 2014!
All the Best,
Mr. David Cohen, Principal