The 209 Crispell Middle School eighth grade students filed into Pine Bush High School on Thursday, June 22, as their families and teachers were eager to celebrate all they have accomplished over the past three years of middle school.
Their principal, John Boyle welcomed the students and guests and spoke to the rising ninth graders about opportunities. “You must remain diligent in checking out opportunities,” said Mr. Boyle, who is retiring this summer. It was noted that he too is finally graduating from middle school after 20 years at Crispell. “Even in the darkest of times, you can still find opportunities. An opportunity missed is a very expensive lesson.”
Mr. Boyle also reminded the students of some important advice: “As you leave Crispell, remember to be kind, responsible, respectful. Good luck and take advantage of every opportunity offered to you.”
Superintendent Dunn told the students and their parents that in four short years, they will be the Pine Bush High School Class of 2027. He reminded the students that more is expected of them as they enter high school.
“There are higher expectations of you in the high school. You’re expected to keep track of your assignments and get them in on time,” he said.
He challenged them to read throughout the summer, noting they have a summer reading assignment waiting for them.
“My challenge to you is to read books this summer,” Mr. Dunn said. “You’ll be getting your homework done and you’ll also be working on your ability to focus, follow directions, you’ll learn empathy and also have great entertainment that will enrich your lives.”
Many awards were presented to students for academics, music, drama and character development including:
- Joan Ritzinger Humanitarian Award – Layla Utter
- Patrick T. Mataraza Respect Award – Caileigh Regan
- Joan Carbone Award – Krishna Ramnarine, Bella Simmons
- Triple C Award (Courage, Character, Commitment) Blue Team – Shannon Nelson
- Triple C Award (Courage, Character, Commitment) Gold Team – Vanessa Villalpando
- PTO Academic Achievement Award – Tam-Ann Thai
- Principal’s Awards – Tam-Ann Thai
- Grade 8 Blue Team Student of the Year – Harrison Winter
- Grade 8 Blue Team Outstanding Work Ethic – Kasey Dempsey
- Grade 8 Blue Team Most Improved Award – Aiden Acosta
- Grade 8 Gold Team Student of the Year – Angus Russell
- Grade 8 Gold Team Outstanding Work Ethic – Daniel Lin
- Grade 8 Gold Team Most Improved Award – Vanessa Villalpando
- Drama Club Director’s Award – Olivia Belofski
- Director’s Award for Chorus – Dailyn Johnson
- Director’s Award for Band – Krishna Ramnarine
Congratulations to all eighth-graders at Crispell as they move up to Pine Bush High School. Your future is so bright!
And congratulations also to John Boyle who has dedicated his professional life to our students. We are so grateful and wish you a long, healthy retirement.