East Meadow School District eighth graders celebrated the end of their middle school years during moving-up ceremonies at W.T. Clarke Middle School and Woodland Middle School on June 23 and 24, marking an important milestone before beginning high school this fall.
At W.T. Clarke Middle School, students, families, teachers and administrators gathered in the school's gymnasium after inclement weather forced the ceremony indoors from its originally planned location on the football field.
The venue change did little to diminish the excitement as members of the Class of 2030 reflected on their middle school experiences and looked ahead to becoming Rams at W.T. Clarke High School. Members of the Board of Education and district administration attended to recognize the students' achievements and growth.
Principal Elizabeth Downing, Assistant Principal Linda Lynch and Superintendent Kenneth Rosner encouraged students to embrace the next stage of their academic careers.
"As you head to high school, focus less on being perfect and more on being consistent," Downing said. "Small habits become routines, routines become character, and character becomes your future."
Students also heard from James Miller, who officially began his tenure as principal of W.T. Clarke High School on July 1. Miller welcomed the incoming freshmen and said he looks forward to supporting them throughout their high school years.
Downing and Lynch also presented academic awards recognizing students for achievement, leadership and dedication.
The following day, Woodland Middle School eighth graders celebrated their moving-up ceremony at Salisbury School, surrounded by family members, friends, faculty and staff.
Board of Education members, district administrators and Rosner joined the celebration, recognizing students for their accomplishments and perseverance throughout middle school.
Principal Kristi Detor encouraged students to approach high school with confidence and an openness to new opportunities.
"Be kind, be curious, work hard, take chances, support one another and never stop learning," Detor said. "Tonight, you will all leave Woodland with confidence, knowledge, friendships and memories that will guide you into your next chapter."
Detor also presented academic awards honoring students for their hard work, leadership and commitment to excellence.
The ceremonies marked the culmination of three years of middle school and the beginning of a new chapter as students prepare to enter W.T. Clarke High School and East Meadow High School this fall.
District officials congratulated both eighth-grade classes and wished the students continued success as they begin their high school careers.
