Eighth-Graders Move Up

The end of one chapter marks the beginning of another, as was the case for Long Beach Middle School’s eighth-graders, who celebrated their transition to high school during their moving up ceremony.

Held in the high school gym, students marched down the aisles with big smiles as family members, friends and members of the school community looked on. Dr. Michele Natali spoke to students about all they’ve accomplished since sixth-grade, which included the perseverance to overcome various obstacles caused by Superstorm Sandy, when middle schoolers spent four weeks at the high school and another two weeks at the Lido School.

“We needed to rely on each other and support each other,” she said. “It didn’t matter where we were. Sandy wasn’t going to bring us down.”

Superintendent of Schools David Weiss echoed Natali’s sentiments and urged students to make the most out of their high school experience.

“We celebrate the accomplishments of our eighth-graders who head to high school in the fall,” Weiss said. “Students…you need to choose to participate. With choice, you are in control. Don’t be satisfied with getting by…choose excellence.”

Submitted by Long Beach Schools