Family and friends, faculty and staff, along with building and district administrators gathered at Pine Bush High School Thursday morning, June 26, to celebrate the accomplishments of Crispell Middle School Class of 2025.
Principal Stephen Wilder welcomed all to this very special day.
“This is a special milestone in the lives of our students where, as parents and caregivers, we see the next four years going too fast, and for the students it probably won’t seem to go fast enough,” said Mr. Wilder.
Student success, he said, is a team effort, with many having played a role in our students’ successes: families and friends, faculty and staff, Shannon Meland, our eighth grade counselor, the Crispell PTO, district leaders and board of education.
“Together we create incredible experiences and opportunities for our students,” he continued. “As I have said many times throughout the school year, it is not what you are capable of, it is what you are willing to do.”
Amy Brockner, interim superintendent of schools, also addressed the students. She encouraged the students to celebrate what they’ve accomplished and look ahead with eagerness.
“Today represents more than the conclusion of your middle school years,” said Ms. Brockner. “It’s the beginning of your next adventure at Pine Bush High School. This is a day to celebrate your journey, to reflect on your growth and to look ahead with courage and enthusiasm.”
She explained that throughout this year, the district has embraced the theme, “One Team, One Mission.” It is a simple phrase but with a powerful meaning. “It’s a way of living, learning and leading together,” she said.
Ms. Brockner recognized the families who have supported these students throughout their journey.
“Your steady encouragement and support have made a lasting impact,” she said. “You are, and always have been and always will be, vital members of our team.”
She also gave credit to the staff at Crispell Middle School, thanking them for their commitment and passion, and their belief in the students. “Because of you, they leave here not just smarter, but stronger and more prepared,” said Ms. Brockner.
Of course, the students themselves were who this day was about.
“Today belongs to you,” she said. “In your time at Crispell, you’ve overcome obstacles, built friendships, developed skills and discovered what it means to be part of a team. You’ve learned that teamwork isn’t about perfection – it’s about perseverance. It’s about supporting one another, learning from setbacks and growing together.
“As you head to Pine Bush High School, I encourage you to carry the heart of One Team, One Mission into every new experience,” she said. “You are the voice, the energy and the future of our community. And your actions will shape the path for those who follow.”
Many awards were handed out to this talented group. They included:
- Grade 8 Gold Team Student Of The Year Award – Allison Potter
- Grade 8 Blue Team Student of the Year Award – Sean Farah
- Grade 8 Gold Team Outstanding Work Ethic Award – Valentina Zuniga and Lila Hanson
- Grade 8 Blue Team Outstanding Work Ethic Award – Emma Boland and Emily Fobert
- Grade 8 Gold Team Most Improved Award – Clay Rivera and Ruben Gonzalez
- Grade 8 Blue Team Most Improved Award – Junyse Jack and Chloe Loucks
Special awards were also presented, including:
PTO Achievement Certificate – Kelly Ann Burbage
This award is presented to the student with the highest grade point average over the three years at Crispell.
Science Scholar Award – Kelly Ann Burbage
Emerging Science Student Award – Nathan Rose
Joan Ritzinger Humanitarian Award – Abigail Merino
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 – Chase Turcotte
This award goes to a student who embodies the respect acumen every day.
Principal’s Award – Juliette Thibodeau
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 – Anthony Hernandez and Sean Armstrong
The Triple C Award recognizes the courage, character, and commitment of New York State’s outstanding students.
Before they exited, Mr. Wilder reminded the students that change will come over the next year and their choices are key.
“You are the Class of 2029,” said Mr. Wilder. “Who you are today is not who you will be when you graduate four years from now. From this moment forward, you have to make many, many choices as to who you will be when your graduation day comes. Choose wisely.
“For, as Albus Dumbledore of the Harry Potter series famously said, ‘It is our choices that show us what we truly are, far more than our abilities’,” he added.
“Make it a great day, summer and life and be your best self!”
Students and their guests celebrated after the ceremony with refreshments, courtesy of the PTO, with their friends and families outside Pine Bush High School, their new school come September!
Congratulations to all!
