Elwood Middle School Holds Moving Up Ceremony

ELWOOD, NY—Elwood Middle School held its second annual moving up ceremony for high school-bound eighth graders on June 24, the Elwood Union Free School District announced via press release. After the school's principal, Dr. Christina Sapienza, welcomed attendees, a select chorus performed a beautiful rendition of God Bless America.

"Being able to watch you all take risks, grow, and take on new activities and passions has been such a joy," Sapienza told the Class of 2019. "And when I think about all that lies before you, I have so many wishes for you all." She then read an inspirational excerpt from the children’s book, "I Wish You More" by Amy Krouse Rosenthal.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth Bossert and Assistant Principal Dawn Valle addressed the graduating class as well, wishing them the best in all of their future endeavors, and offered students words of wisdom. Additionally, student council president Cateyann Bernhard took a moment to congratulate her classmates.

"Entering into high school will give us so many more avenues to explore our passions and to find new things that make us happy, but will also present new challenges," Bernhard said. "But never let failures get you down—let them motivate you."

Departmental and character awards were given to well-deserving students, and when it came time to receive recognition for moving up, students walked proudly across the stage and received a white or blue carnation from Sapienza or Valle.

The ceremony concluded with high school principal Carisa Burzynski offering her congratulations and excitement in gaining the Elwood-John H. Glenn Class of 2023 in the fall.