As spring arrives and the school year at Byram Hills High School nears its end, it’s a great time to reflect on the accomplishments and challenges of the graduating class of 2025. I had the honor of speaking with Principal Mr. Walsh, who shared insights on this year’s seniors, their resilience, and their lasting impact on the school.
“The Class of 2025 was in seventh grade when the pandemic hit, and their eighth-grade year was hybrid,” Walsh explains. “By the time they entered high school, it had been over a year and a half since they experienced a normal school environment. Watching them grow over the past four years has been incredible,” Walsh continued. “They truly embraced the opportunity to learn in person again and demonstrated how resilient students can be when adapting to change.”
Beyond their academic journey, the Class of 2025 left a significant mark on student government. Walsh noted that while the student government includes all grade levels, this was the first year that every school-wide officer position was held by seniors, setting a strong example for underclassmen.
The class also excelled in extracurriculars, earning recognition in prestigious programs such as Regeneron, National Merit, and the music department’s trip to Disney World. Walsh describes the Class of 2025 as “kind” and possessing “a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of people, with a strong commitment to making their communities, country and world a better place.”
When asked if he had any advice for the graduates, Walsh emphasized the importance of civic engagement. “Voting is both a right and a voice,” he says. “Whether on a local, state, or national level, they need to ensure their voices are heard. An educated and knowledgeable electorate is key to shaping the world they want to live in.”
As the Class of 2025 prepares to graduate, Walsh also wanted to remind them that Byram Hills will always be their home. “We feel so connected to them. We know that they are a link in the chain that goes back to the very first class we had here in 1968, and they are now a part of the fabric of what it means to be a Byram Hills student. So, they will always have a home here, and I want to thank them for making us who we are.”
Regarding graduation details, Walsh shared that the ceremony will take place on Tuesday, June 24, at 5:00 PM on the school’s turf field. “Since the pandemic, we’ve held graduation on campus rather than at SUNY Purchase,” he notes. “The ceremony will include speeches from the valedictorian, salutatorian, superintendent, board of education president, and myself. We’ll also have a presentation of the class gifts by student government members.” The valedictorian and salutatorian will be announced at the graduation rehearsal on June 11.
As the Class of 2025 moves forward, they leave behind a legacy of perseverance, leadership and compassion–one that will continue to inspire students for years to come.
