It was a proud day for Pine Bush Elementary School as 121 fifth grade students moved up to Crispell Middle School on Friday, June 15, at Pine Bush High School.

Families, friends, teachers and administrators cheered the students on as the ceremony marked the end of their elementary education and the move up to Crispell.

Superintendent Tim Mains reminded parents that these students will become part of the Pine Bush High School class of 2025. He congratulated the students and wished them well on their next big adventure. He encouraged the students to be active in middle school, to consider joining clubs and teams, to work hard and to always stay true to themselves.

Principal Eric Winter and Assistant Principal Kristin Slover presented awards and praised this group for their achievements not only for the current school year but in their careers at PBE. Students were recognized for outstanding academic and extracurricular achievements, as well as for their character accomplishments.

As a special treat, the Grade 5 Band Ensemble played “Over the Rainbow,” led by Mrs. Judith Bracco. This was the first year that many of these budding musicians ever picked up their instruments.

Afterwards, families and friends gathered with their newly-minted middle schoolers for refreshments, courtesy of the PTA. Another milestone made.

Congratulations to the Pine Bush Elementary School fifth graders!