Newtown Middle School (NMS) eighth grade students graduated during two Moving-Up Ceremonies on Monday, June 15, at Newtown High School’s gymnasium.

The Moving-Up Ceremonies are an annual NMS tradition to celebrate its soon-to-be alumni as they advance to the high school.

Similar to previous years, the graduating class — this year consisting of 296 students — was split into two ceremonies: one for students in 8 Blue and another for those in 8 Gold and 8 Purple.

The event kicked off the same way as it does in many other graduation ceremonies, with a processional set to “Pomp & Circumstance.” Family and friends excitedly clapped for their loved ones as they made their way into the gymnasium and filled the rows of chairs.

This was followed by “The Star-Spangled Banner” performed by eighth grade chorus students and “High Hopes” by Panic! At The Disco performed by band and orchestra students.

Afterwards, NMS Principal Jim Ross took the stage. He said they all gathered to celebrate the NMS Class of 2026 as they reached an important milestone in their educational journey.

The ceremony, Ross said, recognizes the completion of their middle school years, but also the growth, perseverance, and accomplishments that have brought them to this moment.

“We are incredibly proud of our students and all they have achieved during their time at Newtown Middle School,” Ross continued.

He then welcomed Superintendent of Schools Anne Uberti, who told students the ceremony “is an exciting opportunity to celebrate the end of [their] middle school journey and the beginning of a brand new chapter.”

She said middle school, in many ways, is practice for what comes next. However, Uberti added that it has been much more than practice. It is where students have learned to navigate friendships, overcome challenges, find their voices, and discover what they’re capable of.

“I encourage you to embrace this next step with courage and curiosity,” Uberti told the graduating class. “We believe in you. We are proud of you, and we can’t wait to see all that you'll do next. Congratulations, and I look forward to seeing you here at Newtown High School next fall.”

Ross took the stage again and said NMS Student Council members have worked hard throughout the year to strengthen school spirit, foster connections, and create lasting memories with Spirit Weeks, pep rallies, dances, and community days.

NMS Student Council representatives Alison Zhang and Chase McCormick spoke next. Each presented reflections pertaining to their time at NMS; Zhang discussed all the life lessons she and her peers have learned along the way, while McCormick spoke about the importance of service and what they can do for their community.

Afterwards, it was time for the awards recognition segment. Ross welcomed NMS Assistant Principal Brian Walsh, who congratulated all their eighth grade students “on this special evening of recognition and celebration.”

Awards presented that evening included: Cluster Academic Awards, the President’s Award for Educational Excellence, the CT State Special Recognition Award, the Superintendent’s Award, and the CABE Student Leadership Award, among others.

Ross returned to the stage and acknowledged they have a few talented and dedicated staff members who will be leaving the NMS family at the close of this academic year.

The first to be recognized were the school’s two security guards, Jim Jensen and Pete Zaksewicz, who are retiring to spend more time with their families. Ross thanked them for their years of dedication to NMS and for the warm, welcoming presence they have provided to students, staff, and families each day.

He then recognized Jillian Morais, Kim Pereira, and Michelle Maag, who are moving on to new opportunities, and Judy Catanese and Genia Brockett, who are retiring.

“Thank you for all you have given to NMS,” Ross told the departing staff members. “You will always be part of our NMS family.”

Select students, as representatives of their clusters, then shared reflections on their time at the middle school and gave thoughtful advice to their peers as they move into the future.

James Gulalo spoke for 8 Blue at their ceremony, while Noah Francis spoke for 8 Gold and Teagan McMurdo spoke for 8 Purple at theirs.

Then came for the moment students, staff, and families were all waiting for: the recognition of students.

Students were called one by one up to the stage, where they took their literal and metaphorical first steps into high school.

Ross closed the ceremony by directly speaking to his students one last time. He said the occasion was a celebration of their hard work, growth, friendships, challenges, and many contributions to NMS.

“Remember who you are and what you’ve learned here. Choose to rise up,” Ross told the outgoing eighth graders. “Congratulations, Class of 2026. Lead with character, and continue to be the very best version of yourself.”

Reporter Jenna Visca can be reached at jenna@thebee.com.