Newtown Middle School eighth grade students graduated during two Moving-Up Ceremonies held on Wednesday, June 11 at Newtown High School.

These Moving-Up Ceremonies are an annual NMS tradition to honor eighth graders finishing middle school and "moving up" to the high school.

Much like last year, the graduation class was split into two ceremonies: one for students in 8 Blue and another for those in 8 Gold and 8 Purple.

Students filled the rows of chairs set in the center of the high school's gymnasium to the tune of "Pomp and Circumstance," while family and friends excitedly cheered from the bleachers.

The celebration started with 8 Purple student Ciana Alvarez and 8 Blue student Kylee Gonzalez performing the National Anthem in their respective ceremonies, followed by the NMS Chamber Orchestra performing "God Bless America" under the direction of the school's orchestra director Francesca Gennusa.

NMS Principal Jim Ross took the stage from there, saying that it is his pleasure and privilege to celebrate the middle school's Class of 2025 as they reach an important milestone in their educational journey.

"We are incredibly proud of all they have accomplished," Ross said.

He then welcomes Superintendent of Schools Anne Uberti, who expressed her pride in the students for finishing this chapter of their lives. For as daunting as high school may be to some of them, Uberti encouraged them all as they move on into the future and to overcome any challenges in their way.

Ross took the stage again and said NMS Student Council members have worked diligently throughout the year to plan social activities and experiences from Spirit Weeks and pep rallies to dances and community days. These events, he said, have built relationships and created middle school memories that "will last a lifetime."

He welcomed two members of the Student Council Executive team to the podium, Eduardo Magalhaes and Nick Michael, who delivered the Student Council Address and encouraged their fellow classmates in their academics and personal lives.

Afterwards, the ceremony moved on to its traditional awards recognition segment. NMS Assistant Principal Brian Walsh stood behind the podium and recognized the many students who earned awards for their academic achievement, student effort, school pride, and more.

The awards presented that evening included the Cluster Academic Award, the Lion's Pride Award, the President's Award for Educational Excellence, CT State Special Recognition Award, among many others.

Following that, select students spoke as representatives of their clusters to reflect on their time at the middle school and share thoughtful advice to their classmates as they move into the future.

Graduating students were then called one by one onto the stage to take their moving up steps, shaking hands with Ross, Walsh, Uberti, and Board of Education members as they officially became high school students.

Ross took the microphone one last time to thank the school's talented staff members who are leaving the NMS family at the end of the academic year. Those leaving include 8 Gold science teacher Emily Neff, 8 Gold Spanish teacher Laura Bautista, and 7 Orange English/language arts teacher Lauren Galligan.

Ross also honored NMS band director Mark Mahoney and 8 Blue social studies teacher Phil Crus for retiring after 27 and 29 years respectfully.

"The contributions they have made to the students of Newtown have been immeasurable," Ross said.

For his closing comments, Ross told the students how their class will always be remembered for their kindness, growth, and enthusiasm.

These qualities will serve them well not only as they take on the academic challenges of high school, but as they navigate their careers, build relationships, and take on being thoughtful, contributing members of their community.

He continued his speech by encouraging the graduates to follow their dreams — no matter how distant or difficult they may seem.

"Never forget that your potential is limited only by the boundaries you place on yourself," Ross said.

As a lifelong Yankees fan, Ross left everyone with a quote from the "Captain" himself, Derek Jeter: "There may be people who have more talent than you, but there's no excuse for anyone to work harder than you do."

Ross said he hopes these words remind them that success does not belong solely to the most talents, but to those who are willing to show up, put in the effort, and never stop trying.

"As you head into high school and beyond, remember: hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard," Ross said. "You'll meet people who seem to have all the answers, but it's your persistence, your work ethic, and belief in yourself that will truly set you apart."