Like Cicadas, Class of 2013 Ready to Spread Wings, ALJ Valedictorian Says

On a beautiful June night, the class of 2013, family and friends and Arthur L. Johnson High staff gathered to celebrate graduation. 

Salutatorian Joseph Bonaccorso made the first speech of the night, encouraging his classmates to follow their dreams - whatever they are. Bonaccorso will be attending the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton Business School in the fall.

Valedictorian Andre Silva Dias related graduating to this year's cicadas, both the bugs and his class emerging to face the real world after 17 years. Dias will attend Rutgers in the fall. 

Next up was Board of Education President Lorraine J. Aklonis, whose speech centered on a quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson about success. 

Clark Superintendent Ken Knops, father to a class of 2013 graduate himself, encouraged students to take the summer to enjoy time with family and friends before they head off to college – and to always remember to call their parents. 

The night's last speaker, ALJ Principal Richard Delmonaco, chose instead to scrap his speech, ripping it up at the podium and saying he could "read a crowd," before skipping straight to the diplomas.

With diplomas in hand, it was time for the class of 2013 to finally move their tassles and toss their hats. Here, video highlights from Thursday's ceremony.