On June 13, Wisdom Lane families gathered in the auditorium for the special occasion. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by students Olivia D’Amato and Olivia Kim, and “The Star-Spangled Banner” was sung by Alyssa Aybar, Fiona Kim, Gianna LeFurgy, Rachel Maurer, Maia Roeder and Domenica Scuccimarri. Principal John Avena encouraged students to seek achievement by citing influential intellectuals like Albert Einstein and musicians like the Rolling Stones, who were driven by their dreams. “As you leave Wisdom Lane and enter adulthood, you will hear people say, ‘Follow your dreams,’” Mr. Avena said, “but it may be your literal dream that changes the course of history.”

In addition, Superintendent of Schools Todd Winch reflect- ed on the challenges the class had overcome before Division Avenue High School Principal John Coscia extended a warm welcome.

In their eighth grade address, students Alyssa Aybar, Rachel Maurer and Domenica Scuccimarri reflected on the perseverance of their peers. “When I walked into school on the first day of sixth grade, I said, ‘This is going to be the longest three years of my life,” Rachel said, “but it turned out to go by so fast, and it was the best three years of my life.”

On June 15, eighth graders at Salk processed onto the field at the neighboring General Douglas MacArthur High School as loved ones packed the bleachers. Assistant Principal Amy O’Grady held opening remarks before eighth grade president Omaris Quintero Zamora led the salute to the flag and members of the eighth grade chorus sang the national anthem.

Principal John Zampaglione congratulated students on their years of accomplish- ments and encouraged them to look ahead with excitement. “From excelling academically to demonstrating leadership skills and engaging in numerous extracurricular activities, our students have consistently set the bar high,” Mr. Zampaglione said. “You have embraced challenges head-on, shown determination in the face of obstacles, and achieved remarkable success.”

Mr. Winch again addressed eighth graders and praised them for making it through several unique challenges. Eighth grade president Brayden LaBonte reflected on his journey with his peers and the positive experiences they have created through every experience.

Several awards from local government officials and the Kiwanis club, as well as awards for academic excellence and more, were issued to students. The eighth grade chorus performed “Rise Up” by Andra Day before students walked forward to receive their certificates.