One hundred fifty-five eighth-grade students from Circleville Middle School are now rising ninth-graders, on their way to Pine Bush High School.
On Tuesday, June 20, the students and their families celebrated their successes in an outdoor ceremony. They were encouraged by their principal, Lisa Hankinson, and our district’s superintendent Brian Dunn.
Ms. Hankinson reminded the student they’ve worked on character traits throughout their elementary and middle school years – trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship.
“I hope you continue to exemplify these traits through word and deed,” she told her students.
These traits will provide a strong foundation as you become leaders in our society, she said.
Mr. Dunn challenged the students to think deeply about their use of time this summer and into next school year. “Father time is undefeated,” he told the group.
“You are going to be more accountable and responsible for your learning in high school,” he said. “Talk to your parents and grandparents about it. Make the best of your time!”
The CVMS salutatorian, Caitlyn Yao, gave gratitude to her family and friends. She talked about how she struggled with math early in elementary school. Even when her mom would spend hours explaining it to her, she just wouldn’t get it. She worked hard and kept trying.
“In third grade, something clicked,” she said. Thanks to that hard work, my grades started to rise. I am living proof that with hard work, anything is possible.”
Finally, the class valedictorian, Amelia Bavolar, took to the microphone. Amelia spoke to her classmates about being themselves, being authentic, noting that she had been a people pleaser and said and did what was expected. That changed. She encouraged her fellow eighth-graders to improve themselves and their mindset.
“Improvement begins with loving yourself,” she said. “Loving yourself starts with being yourself.”
Many awards were presented to this talented group of students.
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. Cole Miedema and Christian Bryant received the award from CVMS.
The Triple C Award, recognizing the courage, character, and commitment of New York State’s outstanding students, was given to Suemy Chan Way and Lina Saleh.
Ms. Hankinson presented her Principal’s Award to Symone Davis.
After the ceremony, the students mingled with their family members and friends, enjoying their time together before moving up to Pine Bush High School as the class of 2027!
Congratulations to all CVMS eighth-grade students!
