District 170 Eighth Graders Graduate: Viewfinder

Excitement buzzed through the courtyard as School District 170 eighth graders prepared to line up and say goodbye to grade school.  As photos were being taken, parents and other family members were getting seats in the Workman auditorium.

After the processional of the eight graders and the Pledge of Allegiance, District Supt. Tom Amadio gave the keynote speech. Amadio praised family members for their help in educating their children. The superintendent asked single parents to stand, and they were given a standing ovation.

Amadio then spoke of an eight grader who was talking to a teacher about stocks and bonds, predicting her future as the CEO of a company one day. He encouraged the students to do nothing but their best.

One of the highlights of the graduation came from the principal of Roosevelt School, Charles Lofrano. Lofrano gave out the Jerry Colangelo award. He read a quote from Colangelo, a and Bloom High School graduate, now a successful businessman. 

Colangelo gave four points that principal Lofrano passed on to the graduates. Work hard, follow your heart, don’t be afraid to take risks and know that your family and friends love you and will always be there.

As the diplomas were given out and the graduation came to a close, the graduates' family and friends surrounded them to wish them well as they continue with their education.