242 McManus Graduates Celebrate a 'Perfect Moment'
Valedictorian Olivia Wlodyka and Salutatorian Juan Romero lead the Class of 2026 as speakers reflect on resilience, purpose, and the promise of what comes next
LINDEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS, NJ -- The journey wasn't perfect, and according to Principal William Mastriano, that's exactly what made the moment special.
As 242 members of the Myles J. McManus Middle School Class of 2026 celebrated their promotion Monday morning (June 22), speakers reflected on a shared journey marked by challenges overcome, lessons learned, friendships forged, and opportunities embraced -- a journey that culminated in what Mastriano called "a perfect moment."
Led by Valedictorian Olivia Wlodyka and Salutatorian Juan Romero, graduates were recognized not only for reaching the end of middle school, but for the resilience, growth, and character that carried them there.
Throughout the ceremony, a consistent message emerged from the stage: appreciate how far you've come, embrace who you've become, and look confidently toward what lies ahead.
Also joining families, faculty, and students for the celebration were Board of Education Vice President Dr. Marlene Berghammer and board member Brianna Armstead, along with members of the district's executive leadership team, including Assistant Superintendent Annabell Louis, Business Administrator John Serapiglia, Human Resources Director Dr. Kayla Lott, and Director of Multilingual Learners, Danie Orelien.
From Uncertainty to Achievement
Wlodyka set that tone in her valedictory address, reflecting on the uncertainty many students felt when they first entered McManus as sixth graders. What began with questions about fitting in, making friends, and finding their place evolved into lasting friendships, unforgettable memories, and lessons that extended far beyond the classroom.
She thanked her family, teachers, and classmates for helping shape her journey and reminded graduates that success is never achieved alone.
As classmates prepare to follow different paths, Wlodyka encouraged them to cherish the moments they shared together and remain connected long after middle school ends.
A Class Built on Resilience
Mayor Derek Armstead praised the graduates for navigating challenges that few generations have experienced at such a young age. He noted that many members of the Class of 2026 spent their formative years learning through the lingering effects of a global pandemic, yet emerged stronger because of it.
Their ability to adapt, persevere, and thrive, he said, demonstrated a level of maturity and resilience that will continue to serve them well in the years ahead.
Armstead also reminded students that their success was made possible by a network of support that included parents, grandparents, teachers, family members, and friends who stood beside them throughout their journey.
Lessons Beyond the Classroom
Superintendent Dr. Atiya Perkins challenged students to think beyond academics and consider the choices that define character. Drawing on the district's "Don't Fight It, Make It Right" philosophy, she encouraged graduates to pause before reacting, respond thoughtfully to challenges, and remain focused on becoming the best version of themselves.
Perkins reminded students that each of them possesses a unique purpose and value, urging them to remember that "high school is not the finish line—it's a runway."
Her message was simple yet powerful: face challenges with confidence, learn from every experience, and continue moving forward.
Embrace Every Opportunity
Board of Education President Malaysia Thomas echoed that message by encouraging students to make the most of every opportunity that awaits them at Linden High School.
Whether through athletics, the arts, clubs, leadership organizations, ROTC, or academic programs, she challenged graduates to step outside of their comfort zones, try new things, and embrace new experiences.
Some of life's most meaningful moments, she told students, begin with the courage to take a chance.
A Legacy of ROAR
For Mastriano, the accomplishments of the Class of 2026 extended far beyond report cards and test scores.
He praised students for embodying the district's ROAR framework of Resilience, Opportunity, Achievement, and Relationships while leaving a lasting impact on the McManus community through academics, athletics, student leadership, Tiger News Network broadcasts, cultural celebrations, performances, and service initiatives.
Many of those contributions, he noted, will continue long after the graduates leave the halls of McManus.
"Life is not perfect," Mastriano told the class. "But there are perfect moments. And this is a perfect moment."
He also thanked parents and guardians for their partnership and support, recognizing the vital role families played in helping students reach this milestone.
Music, Memories, and a New Beginning
Adding to the celebration, the McManus Select Choir performed "Thank You for the Music," arranged by Jerry Estes, providing a fitting tribute to the memories and experiences that defined the graduates' middle school years.
The symbolic transition to high school was completed when Laurence McGhee, vice principal of Linden High School, formally accepted the graduates into the future Class of 2029, welcoming them to the next chapter of their educational journey.
As the final diplomas were presented and cheers echoed throughout the auditorium, the significance of the moment was unmistakable.
For the 242 members of the McManus Middle School Class of 2026, the ceremony was more than a celebration of what they had accomplished. It was a celebration of who they had become—and a reminder that their greatest opportunities still lie ahead.