Chatterton sixth graders cerebrated their moving up ceremony on June 20, in a sea of blue and gold pomp and circumstance.
Members of the color guard handed over duties to the Class of 2025 ahead of the ceremony during a presentation of flags.
Principal Dana Bermas mentioned how one of her favorite aspects of being a building principal is the “happy opportunity to watch students learn and grow.”
“Over these past seven years, I have watched you develop from our tiniest students into mature, well-rounded young people ready to take on the world,” she said. “Along the way, you have learned foundational and academic skills that will serve as a springboard to your continued success. But more importantly, you have learned invaluable lessons about collaboration, problem-solving, and how to be caring and compassionate citizens.”
Merrick Board President Jill Levine told graduates that the qualities the Chatterton community help foster “will help you succeed in your future.”
“You have proven what you can do here in Chatterton and we cannot to wait watch all that you continue to do as you move onto middle school and beyond,” she added.
Raquel Bodner, a PTA representative, recalled challenges students faced through Covid and how they continued to thrive.
“This sixth grade class has proven to be some of the most adaptable people that I know,” she added. “If you feel nervous about going to middle school, just remember all of the changes and challenges you have already faced and conquered here at Chatterton.”
Student Council representatives Carly Richardson and Nolan Auyeung addressed the crowd, recanting various memories of their time spent at Chatterton. “We stand before you, feeling accomplished,” Auyeung said. “It has been a long journey filled with countless memories and experiences that have shaped us into who we are today.”
Richardson noted how the Student Council has “contributed to the school and community in meaningful ways.” “Throughout the year, we collected and donated toys, Legos and animal resources to those in need,” Richardson listed.
Traci Colfer, a building representative for the Merrick Faculty Association, announced a donation being made to Stand Up To Cancer on behalf of the Class of 2024. “This organization is very close to Chatterton’s heart,” she explained.
Dr. Richard Nasto coordinated choral arrangements of “Vienna” and “Turn the Beat Around.” While students Isaac Diamant and Max Schlosser penned lyrics for the traditional sixth grade song parody, “A Million Dreams.”
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Date Added: 6/20/2024