Three Island Residents Graduate From St. John Paul II High School

Three island residents dubbed the “Nantucket Boys” officially graduated from St. John Paul II High School this summer according to SJP communications coordinator Kasey Boyle in a press release sent out earlier this week. The boys – Robin Martinez-Lemus, Sebastian Ramos, and Jose Aguilar – commuted daily to school from Nantucket to SJPII, which is located in Hyannis, by ferry.

“The boys, who lived on Nantucket with their families, made the early morning boat ride across Nantucket Sound each school day, demonstrating incredible commitment to their education and to the JPII community,” Boyle said. “Wanting to challenge themselves academically and set a strong foundation for college, they sought out JPII for its rigorous academics, supportive environment, and college-preparatory focus — despite the extraordinary commute it would require."

Martinez-Lemus earned the Charism Award just three months after making the transfer to SJP, which is given to a student who exemplifies leadership and character. He also received the JPII Spirit Award, which celebrated his “unwavering positivity, active involvement, and embodiment of the school’s mission.”

“Through harsh winters, icy waters, and unpredictable weather that often disrupted ferry service, the journey was never easy,” Boyle said. “The boys juggled early mornings, long days, and late nights — especially during sports seasons when games ran past the last ferry back to the island.

But thanks to the extraordinary generosity of several JPII families — there was always a place to stay, a warm meal, and a ride when needed,” Boyle continued. “These families opened their homes and hearts, stepping in as a second support system and helping turn what once seemed impossible into a powerful story of perseverance, teamwork, and community at its best.”

All three of the graduates played for the JPII men’s soccer team and served as team captains this past year. They played Nantucket’s boys soccer team twice: losing 2-1 on the island in the first matchup before winning 2-1 in Hyannis later in the season.

The school said that the journey of the Nantucket Boys is a testament to the strength of their community, the power of perseverance, and the unique connections that define the JPII experience.

“Families and staff came together in extraordinary ways to support these young men and make this possible,” Dr. William Latimer, Head of School, said.

Martinez-Lemus will attend Lasell University to pursue personal finance. Sebastian Ramos is also heading to Lasell University on a full scholarship majoring in business management, and Aguilar will begin his studies majoring in sports management at Stonehill College.