Middle school here we come!
The EJR fifth-graders were excited, smiling and eager before their moving-up ceremony on Tuesday, June 17. And why shouldn’t they be? So much awaits them in middle school. Even the rain and the change of venue to Pine Bush High School couldn’t dampen their spirits.
The fifth-grade band entertained to start off the ceremony and students cheered as their classmate received awards in art, music, band, chorus, library, physical education, citizenship and academics.
Interim Superintendent of Schools Amy Brockner spoke to the students, their families and teachers – all valued parts of our team!
“We appreciate everything you do,” Ms. Brockner said to the parents and caregivers. “From helping with homework, cheering from the stands, offering a shoulder to lean on, or simply loving unconditionally. You are the team members who help make our children’s futures bright and we are truly grateful for your continued partnership in their education.”
She called the students “the heart of our team,” and gave them advice for their middle school years.
“Remember to carry forward the spirit of unity. Support your friends and make new ones, collaborate to solve problems, celebrate each other’s successes and lift up those who may need a kind word or a helpful hand,” Ms. Brockner added.
Coach Chris Curnan enthusiastically told the students how happy all their teachers are for them. “We care about you more than you know,” he said, encouraging them to keep in touch after they move on.
Abigail Atwell received the Jeanne S. Theis Memorial Award which honors the former EJR principal. This award is presented to a student each year who exemplifies the characteristics that made Mrs. Theis so special, including compassion, respectfulness and trustworthiness, to name a few.
The students who received the New York State Comptroller’s Award are Noah Chastain, Aaliyah VanLieu, Aliviana DiGiamo-Broadie and Cora Fitzsimmons. This 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.
The Triple C Award, recognizing the courage, character, and commitment of New York State’s outstanding students, was given to Grayce Ferry, Evan Miksa, Jonah Rivera and Emilia Posadas.
At the end of the ceremony, Coaches Curnan and Barbara Hostetter presented flowers to Principal Elizabeth Halsey-Sproul. This is Ms. Halsey-Sproul’s final moving up ceremony at EJR, as she is retiring at the conclusion of the school year. She has been principal of EJR since 2017 and before that served as assistant principal from 2011. We all wish her the very best in her next chapter and are grateful for her kindness, her witt and, most of all, her dedication to her students and staff.
The fifth-grade band ended the ceremony with a rousing version of the alma mater and everyone was chanting EJR, EJR, we are EJR!
After the festivities, the PTA provided blue and gold frosted cupcakes and water as the students gathered. The rain had stopped, bringing many outside to take pictures with their friends, families and teachers. A memorable day for all!
