The downpour of rain could not dampen the spirits of the 150 Salisbury High School students who participated in the 49th Commencement ceremony at Allentown Symphony Hall June 6.

The Salisbury Falcon Band performed a number of songs before playing the processional song of "Pomp and Circumstance," which prompted the seniors to proceed into Symphony Hall and take their places on the stage.

After the band played "The Star Spangled Banner," Superintendent Michael Q. Roth was introduced to provide opening remarks.

Roth said he has learned a great deal about the students in his short seven months of being in Salisbury.

"This group is unique, intelligent, talented and kind to each other," Roth said.

After discussing the school mascot falcon, he likened the students to being like falcons due to the many changes the Class of 2013 has experienced during their time at Salisbury such as high school construction, 1-1 laptop initiative and block scheduling.

Like the falcon, the students "move rapidly, are able to maneuver in unique, creative and significant ways and can fly at high speed and change direction rapidly," Roth said.

"You are, and always will be, falcons," Roth concluded.

School board President Russell R. Giordano offered his sincere congratulations to the graduates on behalf of the school board noting how proud they were of the personal and academic achievements of the students.

He encouraged students to continue the community service they performed while in high school and suggested they find opportunities to use their skills and talents in the community.

"Choose carefully and wisely," Giordano said. "Thank you for all you have done."

Class of 2013 President Abigail D. Frick was introduced by Assistant Principal William A. Dovico.

In her speech, Frick described the Class of 2013 as a diverse group of high achievers who connected with their teachers.

She noted the loss felt by students of teachers Cheryl Criscuolo and Morgan Flagg and said they also lost the relationship with teacher Richard Marsico.

"We were the last class to really remember Miss H. [librarian Michele Honochick)," Frick said.

Frick said with these staffing changes, came new directors for the school plays which were both sold out in all performances. She noted the many titles received in sports and said how the students "showed integrity and are proud to wear blue and white."

In a line sounding very familiar to the movie "Legally Blonde," Frick ended with "Congratulations Class of 2013, we did it!"

Salutatorian Alexandria L. Greenholt was introduced by Assistant Superintendent Dr. Randy M. Ziegenfuss.

She quoted from the poem, "Grow up With Me" by Keaton Henson and talked about the importance of community.

"Thank you, Class of 2013 for growing up with me," Greenholt said.

Valedictorian Alan R. Mendez was introduced by SHS Principal Heather L. Morningstar.

He talked about childhood and laughter and the road ahead for the students.

Mendez quoted E.E. Cummings in saying to the graduates "It take courage to grow up."

To the faculty, Medez said, "well done."

To the parents, he said, "Thank you for being behind us. Thank you for raising us above your heads so we could reach the stars. Thank you for your love."

Teacher Jennifer L. Brinson presented Zachary Miller with an award and Stephen J. Hilaire, president of the Salisbury Education Association presented an education award to Gavin Sonntag.

To the graduates, Hilaire said, "Make a difference and tell them you went to Salisbury."

Representing the Sailsbury Educational Support Professional Association, Dawn M. Cressman presented an award to Quyen Thi Le Tran for being a high achieving LCTI student.

Director of Student Activities Monica H. Deeb presented awards to Alan Mendez, Megan Greenberg, Anthony Dee, Megan Hrebik and Daniel Reichenbach III.

Following the presentation of diplomas, the students were introduced as the graduating Class of 2013 by Morningstar.

After the singing of the Alma Mater, the students recessed and joined their families for a reception at the Arts Park prepared by the Class of 2014.