Sendoff Celebration: Haine Students Say Goodbye to Sixth-Grade With Beach Party

There were beach balls, flower leis and even palm trees as sixth-graders celebrated their last full day as students Thursday with the annual beach blast party.

“It’s kind of a tradition here at Haine,” said Susan Linton, one of the Parent Teacher Organization members who helped to organize the event. “It’s the last hurrah.”

In the fall, the preteens will be head to Jackson Township to attend the at Seneca Valley’s secondary campus, which also includes the intermediate and the senior high school.

But first, they were ready to party.

The send-off celebration for the students included a dance party, volleyball and basketball games, a photo booth and karaoke. There also were chances to win baskets full of prizes.

“I think it’s nice for the kids to have that closure to the school year,” said Mandy Toy, who is finishing her first year as assistant principal at Haine middle and elementary schools.

Several of the sixth-graders expressed excitement about entering Seneca Valley Middle School in the 2012-13 school year.

“I’m very curious about seventh grade,” said Conner Quiggle, 12.

Erin Patrick said she was looking forward to being more independent while Natalee Codispot said she couldn’t wait to make new friends next year—although she added she’d miss her Haine Middle School teachers.  

“I’ll miss Field Day, too,” she said. “I don’t’ think they have it up there.”

What words of wisdom would you like to offer these students before they enter Seneca Valley Middle School in the fall? Leave your best advice in the comment section below.