As the school year closes, we celebrate our 5th and 8th-grade students as they shift to middle and high school. These milestone years are marked by excitement, anticipation, and a sense of achievement. Erika Gascho, the Middle School principal, began the 8th grade celebration sharing what a privilege it was to spend time with the 8th graders this year, they were an exceptional bunch. 

“Today, we celebrate a significant milestone:” Ms. Gascho prayed, “God, we gather together to honor this group of students—who they are, what makes them unique, and the ways they support one another. Taking the time to reflect on the Middle School years, we give thanks for their lives, and cherish these memories. Thank you for each of these students.” 

By the time students reach the end of 8th grade they have gone from learning colors and learning the ABCs to writing essays, conducting research projects, solving math equations, performing exceptional plays, learning instruments, playing sports, and the best part is that they have been kind to each other through it all. Despite the struggles, they’ve shown enthusiasm, empathy, leadership skills, and increased independence.

Their classmates chose Ila Hackman and Kaidence Swartzentruber to speak. They emphasized the importance of being connected and versatile—relating to and understanding others, adapting, being flexible, and growing through challenges. They emphasized the importance of being connected and versatile—relating to and understanding others, adapting, being flexible, and growing through challenges.

When asking the  6th and 7th graders for their thoughts on the 8th graders their reflections were as follows: “I’m sad they won’t be in the Middle School play next year. They are uniquely talented in all areas; they’re great, fantastic, funny, and genuinely happy.”

Gascho’s hope for the rising freshman class, as they transition into high school, is for them to keep holding on to their joy for living. One of her favorite things about the 8th grade is their ability to enjoy life, she encouraged them to keep having fun together.

Mr. King, High School principal, welcomed the rising freshman class with witty advice from the graduating senior class: Stay active in the school community, balance your responsibilities, and remember to enjoy your classes. Teachers are here to help, so don’t hesitate to reach out. Stay positive and make friends; you’re only a 9th grader once.

Supported by families, teachers, and peers, they step into the future with confidence and optimism. Congratulations to our rising 9th-grade class—may they shine brightly in the next chapter of their academic journey!