The grade eight students of Belleville Middle School marched into the auditorium of the BHS Tuesday afternoon, as the BMS 7th Grade Chorus sang We’ve Only Just Begun, to commence their promotion exercises.
Student Council President Nelson Pichardo led the class in the flag salute. The BMS choruses and the audience joined them in singing the Star Spangled Banner, accompanied by Chris Bleeke and conducted by Amanda Mullany.
After recognizing the dignitaries in attendance, school principal Carmine Guinta went on to address the class.
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“You will face newer challenges, what I’d like to call bumps in the road,” Guinta reminded them.
“Challenge though is a part of life. It happens. However, it is not important that you are yet facing another challenge—it is how you respond to it. How you overcome. That is important. That is what counts.”
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He went on to give them some valuable life lessons and guidelines.
“Respect yourself and your family. Get the best education you have. This is your most valuable resource. Be a friend and you will have friends for a lifetime. Accept disappointments. Many things will go your way, some will not. Set high goals and standards. Be patient. Sometimes we must wait to achieve our goals. Follow your dreams. And finally, seek opportunities.”
After the principal’s speech, Brittany Azevedo and Gabriela Perez performed the song Graduation (Friends Forever), again with piano accompaniment by Mullany.
Robert Silvera then gave out some special awards, followed by the handing out of certificates to the class by the principal and teachers. When everyone has returned to their seats, Guinta presented the promoted class, as the audience cheered and applauded.
For the recessional, the 7th Grade Chorus sang Let There Be Peace On Earth, accompanied by Bernadette Flores, with Chris Bleeke as conductor.
Outside on the school grounds, the celebration continued with proud families and friends cheering on the class and handing them flowers, balloons and gifts.
