Barnesville Class of 2017 Graduation Celebration

Barnesville School of Arts & Sciences students, faculty, family, alumni, and friends gathered in the school’s gymnasium on June 14 to celebrate the graduation of the Class of 2017.
Nine of this year’s 16 graduates attended Barnesville since prekindergarten. Each so-called “lifer” presented their parents with flowers to plant in their gardens at home -- a longstanding Barnesville tradition.
Head of School Susanne Johnson shared reflections from the graduating class, noting they were most thankful for their teachers. “Their passion and dedication gives you roots to grow and wings to fly,” she said, echoing the school’s motto established by Jaralyn (Jeri) Hough, Head of School 1984-2006. “I request that you stay connected to your second family here at Barnesville. Please come back often, and allow us to celebrate your continued success.”
Mrs. Johnson then introduced Bridgette Kontner, Barnesville Class of 2013, to deliver the Graduation Address. Bridgette recently graduated from St. Andrews Episcopal School as a member of the Cum Laude Honor Society. She served as president of the student government association, was the student director of the jazz band, captain of the cross-country team, and a four-year lacrosse team member. She will be attending New York University in the fall.
Bridgette challenged the soon-to-be graduates to imagine if they hadn’t had the opportunity to attend Barnesville, recalling memories from her own Barnesville experience like Peace Week, State Fair, and the New York trip, which cemented her desire to go to college in New York.
“Even more than reflecting, I know you’ll take all of these moments and piece together the dreams you want for yourself,” she said. “Barnesville has given you the beginnings of a great education and the ability to be the best person you are every day. Remember your state, your science fair topic, your friends, your teachers, your Barnesville values...with all of these, you can achieve anything you set your mind to.”
Each graduate then delivered a speech reflecting back on their time at Barnesville, highlighting memories, teachers, projects, athletic wins and losses, plays, trips, and friendships.
Annual awards were presented to the following students:

• Kupferberg Cup Award, for a 4th grader selected by the faculty who displays great character and leadership potential – Asher L.
• Board of Directors Award, for outstanding writing of the 8th grade required research paper – Lexi B. and Delaney D.
• Jaralyn Hough Award, selected by fellow 8th grade students as person of outstanding character – Lexi B. and Sunny W.
• Sue King History Award, for demonstrated passion and aptitude for history – Helen M.
• Thompson Butz Award, selected by the entire faculty and staff to recognize outstanding citizenship – Will P.

Students crossed the stage to receive their graduation certificates, shaking hands with the Head of School and Chair of the Board of Trustees. Photos of the day are on Facebook.
Barnesville Class of 2017 Graduates will now move on to the following high schools:

• Clarksburg High School
• Deep Run High School
• Maret School
• Northwest High School (2), one student in the Ulysses Program
• Our Lady of Good Counsel High School (4)
• Poolesville High School, Global Ecology Magnet Program (2)
• St. Andrew's Episcopal School
• St. John’s Catholic Prep (2)
• St. John’s College High School
• Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart

Barnesville School of Arts & Sciences is an independent private school in Montgomery County, Maryland offering innovative preschool through 8th grade programs. Cross-curricular teaching encourages students to explore how subjects relate to one another, helping them to make connections that spark inquiry and deepen understanding. Small classes enable skilled teachers to engage each child in an academically challenging environment. Our 30-acre campus is our extended classroom, and we integrate nature into everyday learning. Barnesville is certified as a Maryland Green School by the Maryland Association for Environmental and Outdoor Education, demonstrating achievement in curriculum and instruction, community partnerships, and best management practices.