505 students graduated from Toms River Intermediate School East yesterday afternoon at the Pine Belt Arena.  Principal Bryan Madigan said that it was the largest graduating class in Ocean County.

Madigan was excited to announce that 277 of the class of 2012 were moved to the A-B honor roll during the school year  

The arena was full with anticipation awaiting the entrance of the students who, when they came out kept coming, and coming and coming. filling the center floor from front to back there was a sea of red caps and gowns. Parents, grandparents, brothers and sisters cheered their arrival.

Rain did not dampen the spirits of the proud graduates and their families, Edith Cullen, Toms River, the grandmother of graduate Ryan Hirtes said "she could not be much prouder of her granddaughter than she is right now."

Debra L. McKenna, Assistant Superintendent of Schools addressed the class of 2012 and reminded them of a few realities; "Tonight is about you", "Remember no one will ever love you quit like your parents will" and to "work hard and persevere".

Madigan certified the graduates and diplomas were handed out by Board member Ben Giovine and Debra L. McKenna, Assistant Superintendent of Schools.