Massapequa Elementary Students Get Ready For Middle School

From Massapequa School District: The Massapequa High School Class of 2025 will come together for the first time in September as the students begin a three-year stop at Berner Middle School.

The district’s six elementary schools hosted moving up ceremonies during the week of June 18, as approximately 500 fifth-graders closed out the first part of their educational journeys. Programs included musical performances, awards presentations, student reflections, tributes to parents, farewell remarks and words of wisdom from administrators. “Have faith in yourselves and work hard,” McKenna Elementary School Principal Dr. Amanda Lowry said to her graduates. “Simply wake up each day and try your best.” “Remember to be true to yourself, laugh at the silly stuff and always do what makes you happy,” noted Unqua Elementary School Principal Deanna Catapano. East Lake Elementary School Assistant Principal Mary Velte reminded students of the qualities mentioned in the book “Wonder” — courage, kindness, friendship and character — and asked them to embrace those values as they move on to middle school. Kindness was the focus of Birch Lane Elementary School’s moving up ceremony. Fifth-grader Victoria Klein spoke about the kindness tree that was put up in the lobby, in which paper leaves were added to acknowledge good deeds performed by students.

“I really believe this school has helped make me into the person I am today,” she said, “and will ultimately help my future and the way I look at life. So, I give all my thanks to this wonderful school and everyone in it for all it has taught me.” Fairfield Elementary School fifth-grader Kaelah Henry recounted how many lessons not only benefitted her academically but made her a better person. When her first-grade class raised baby chicks for a few weeks, she learned to be more mature and caring. Circus arts activities in fifth-grade taught her perseverance.

“All of my teachers have taught me the significance of being kind, honest and courageous,” she said. “They have influenced all of us with their actions and their character.” Students were able to celebrate their elementary years by looking back upon their many memories. The fifth-grade parent committee at Lockhart Elementary School created a photo slideshow for the moving up ceremony. Recognition included the President’s Award for Educational Achievement and Educational Excellence, New York State Comptroller Award and Triple C Award, as well as several school-specific awards. Musical performances reflected the past and future while embracing tradition. Unqua students performed “How Do We Say Goodbye?” while Lockhart
students sang “Don't Stop Believing.” Birch Lane’s fifth-graders recited the school
song, Superintendent Lucille F. Iconis presented her blueprint for success, with advice such as “believe when others are doubting,” “listen while others are talking” and “persist while others are quitting,” among other tips. She spoke about the opportunities they will have in middle school such as learning a world language, joining one or more of approximately 30 clubs and exercising in the fitness center. “Bottom line is that you’ll be able to become more independent and follow your interests,” she said. “There’s something for everyone.”

Photo courtesy of Massapequa School District