It was a festive gathering at Pine Bush High School Thursday morning, June 25, to celebrate the accomplishments and moving up of Crispell Middle School Class of 2026.
Principal Christopher Mummery took a moment to look back at how quickly the three years at Crispell have gone by.
“There is a saying I hold dear. ‘The days are long but the years are short’,” he said. “I’m sure the parents here can definitely related to that. The years seem to fly by in the wink of an eye. It seems like yesterday we were welcoming our sixth graders at orientation in August. Now, here we are celebrating your remarkable journey.”
Mr. Mummery reminded the students to take a moment and feel the love in the room, all for them.
“Pause and recognize the immense love and unwavering support present in this room today,” he said. “From the board of education, district leaders, dedicated teachers, support staff, the PTO and caring parents and guardians.”
Joe Lenz, the district superintendent of schools, talked to the students about their dreams and moving forward to make those dreams a reality.
“There’s a great line from the song A Million Dreams in the Greatest Showman that goes, ‘A million dreams are keeping me awake.’ Every single one of you sitting here has your own set of dreams, ambitions and unique talents waiting to be fostered and developed,” said Mr. Lenz. “Today isn’t a final destination; it’s the start of a thrilling new chapter and a massive step toward making those dreams a reality.”
He spoke to them about five guiding principles for their journey ahead:
- Lead with kindness and respect for everyone you meet.
- Push your limits to see just how far you can go.
- Stay hungry for knowledge and never stop asking questions.
- Dive in and get involved in your new school community.
- Trust the process and believe in the person you are growing into.
“Take a look around and appreciate this moment,” Mr. Lenz added. “Celebrate how far you’ve come, hold onto the friendships and memories you have made and step into your future with your head held high. Dream big, put in the work and never doubt your own potential.”
The final message from their principal was encouraging and congratulatory.
“I hope you take a moment and truly appreciate the incredible effort you put in to reaching this milestone,” said Mr. Mummery. “Cherish today, be grateful for your friends and family and continue to give your best in everything you do.”
Many awards were handed out to this talented group. They included:
- Grade 8 Gold Team Student Of The Year Award – Sara Hoover
- Grade 8 Gold Team Outstanding Work Ethic Award – Edmund Trad, Isabella Montalvo
- Grade 8 Gold Team Most Improved Award – Sean Carney, Jemmia Pratt
- Grade 8 Blue Team Student of the Year Award – Jack Pastormerlo
- Grade 8 Blue Team Outstanding Work Ethic Award – Eden Latorre, Caitlyn Keesler
- Grade 8 Blue Team Most Improved Award – Ella Simmons, Gabriel Ayala
- PTO Achievement Award – Grace Connors
Presented to the student with the highest grade point average over the three years at Crispell. - Science Scholarship Award – Grace Connors
- Emerging Scientist Award – Jordyn Reed
- Joan Ritzinger Humanitarian Award – Jaime Alvarez Lemus
This award is presented to a student who reflects the life, work and legacy of Joan Ritzinger, a longtime teaching assistant at Crispell. - Patrick T. Mataraza Award – Donald Regan
This award goes to a student who embodies the respect acumen every day. - Principal’s Award – Taylor Napoli
The Principal’s Award recognizes a student who has demonstrated a steadfast honor, courage and commitment to be the best version of themselves and being a positive leader among their peers. - Triple C Award – Stephanie Avila, Madyson Atwell
The Triple C Award recognizes the courage, character, and commitment of New York State’s outstanding students. - New York State Comptroller Achievement Award – Jordyn Reed, Michaela Mataraza
The New York State Comptroller’s Award is given to students who have shown academic excellence and the potential for leadership through involvement in activities that improve their school and community. - New York State Civic Ambassador Award – Paige Benjamin
The award recognizes young individuals who exhibit outstanding leadership, a commitment to social justice, and active advocacy within their communities. It aims to inspire youth to pursue careers in public service and law.
Students and their guests celebrated after the ceremony with blue and gold cupcakes and water, courtesy of the PTO, with their friends outside Pine Bush High School, their new school come September!
Congratulations to all!
