Reading, MA — The Reading Memorial High School Class of 2025 Commencement Exercises took place on Friday, May 30, 2025, in the Hawkes Field House. The ceremony commenced at 6:00 p.m. and was streamed live by RCTV.
The Graduation event began with the playing of “Pomp and Circumstance” march performed by the RMHS Band under the direction of Joseph Mulligan. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Justin Raimo, Student Council President, followed by the National Anthem performed by Choral Seniors.
Class President Justin Raimo
Good evening Dr. Milaschewski, Principal Callanan, members of the School Committee, faculty, staff, family, friends, and most importantly, my fellow graduates of the Class of 2025.
My name is Justin Raimo, and I have had the pleasure of serving as your Class President these past four years. Before I begin, I would like to thank our families, friends, and teachers for helping us reach this incredible milestone. We could not have done any of this without all of your support and guidance.
When I first started thinking about this speech, I browsed through numerous stories, trying to find one that best encapsulates our time at RMHS. I finally came across The Bundle of Sticks from Aesop’s Fables. It’s a story of a father who had several sons who were always arguing and fighting amongst themselves. No matter what the father said, they refused to listen to his advice and remained divided. [Read More]
Salutatorian Address Caitlin DeRosa
Good evening, Class of 2025, family, friends, and RMHS staff.
My name is Caitlin DeRosa, and I am honored to address you all tonight as the Salutatorian for the Class of 2025. To begin, I would like to thank my family, friends, teachers, and coaches for not only helping me reach this milestone, but also for shaping me into the person I have become. Without all of you, I would not be standing up here today.
Throughout my time at RMHS, I have had the privilege of meeting amazing people, getting involved in various clubs and teams, and creating memories I will cherish forever. I have always loved to be busy, which has been visible the past four years as I got involved in every extracurricular possible while still keeping up with schoolwork. My parents can attest to the many nights they have yelled at me to go to bed because I was trying to perfect my Spanish homework, watch game film, or finish a DECA slideshow. [Read More]
Valedictorian Address Vivian Bateman
Good evening, and congratulations to my fellow seniors on this exciting new step into the rest of our lives.
I’m incredibly grateful to be speaking today and would like to thank all of our teachers, administrators, parents, and everyone who has led us along the way. We would not be here today without you. I would especially like to thank my parents, who are the two smartest and funniest people I know. Those who know them — or me — in real life know I am not joking nor exaggerating. You inspire me every day. I love you.
When we started high school with masks, standing six feet apart, it was difficult to imagine a future after the ravages of a pandemic… wait, wait, wait — you definitely don’t want to hear about that. [Read More]
The RMHS School Choirs, under the direction of Andy Mullen, performed “Let the River Run” with words and music by Carly Simon, arranged by Jay Althouse.
Principal’s Address Jessica Callanan
Good evening parents, families, staff, and distinguished guests — thank you for being here tonight to celebrate these wonderful young people in the Class of 2025. I feel honored and privileged to stand here before you as the Principal of Reading Memorial High School.
Today is the day that seemed like it would never come, but now you are here — and it is somewhat surreal. Be sure to take it all in, because you worked hard to be where you are, each in your own way, with your own personal challenges, setbacks, and successes.
As a class, and as individuals, you instill a sense of optimism. Through hard work and perseverance, you are here today, sitting in these chairs, about to receive your diploma. Some may downplay the importance of a high school diploma, but do not make that mistake. Nothing ahead of you could happen without reaching this milestone. [Read More]
Superintendent’s Address Dr. Thomas Milaschewski
Good evening, Reading community, members of the Reading School Committee, Principal Callanan, Staff, Families, and most importantly, Class of 2025.
The Class of 2025 has demonstrated excellence across academics, the arts, athletics, and community. You include National Merit Scholars, Seal of Biliteracy recipients, and over 70 National Honor Society members. You’ve led state championship teams in cross country, field hockey, boys lacrosse (and I’m thinking a few more are coming this spring!), contributed to a three-time state champion marching band, and earned state semifinalist honors in drama. You launched our first unified basketball team, led award-winning work in robotics, and helped build a more inclusive school culture as Rocket Ambassadors and A World of Difference leaders. [Read More]
Diplomas were conferred by Thomas Wise and Erin Gaffen of the School Committee, along with Assistant Principal Kadi Buckley and Principal Jessica Callanan.
The ceremony concluded with a Recessional performed by the RMHS Band.
The Advisors to the Class of 2025 were Chrissy Clawson and Jessica Greenbaum. Marshals for the ceremony were Aidan Mullin ’26 and Thomas Stathoulopoulos ’26.
List of Class of 2025 Graduating Seniors
Class of 2025 Senior Destinations
School Administration
Dr. Thomas Milaschewski, Superintendent
Dr. Sarah Hardy, Assistant Superintendent
Philip A. Littlehale C.P.A., Chief Financial Officer
Dr. Jennifer Stys, Director of Student Services
Michelle Roach, Human Resources Administrator
Jessica Callanan, Principal, Reading Memorial High School
Kadi Buckley, Assistant Principal, Reading Memorial High School
Meredith Flanagan, Assistant Principal, Reading Memorial High School
Jessica Theriault, Assistant Principal, Reading Memorial High School
Thomas J. Zaya, Assistant Principal, Reading Memorial High School
School Committee
Thomas Wise, Chairperson
Erin Gaffen, Vice Chairperson
Shawn Brandt, Member
Sarah McLaughlin, Member
Carla Nazzaro, Member
Lara Durgavich, Member
Special Thanks
For Significant Contributions to the RMHS Graduation
Flower Shoppe of Eric’s
RCTV
RMHS Custodial Staff
RMHS Facilities Department
