“I’ve got this…I’ve got this!” said Jacob Lloyd as a teacher readied him to enter the Salt Point Center gymnasium for the 8th Grade Moving Up Ceremony and walk down the aisle to "Pomp and Circumstance."
Anticipation was buzzing through the hallway as teachers adjusted their students’ caps and gowns, preparing them for the processional on June 12, 2025. Families and friends applauded as students entered, continuing until all of the students were at their seats and Principal Melissa Murphy stepped up to the microphone to welcome everyone.
“Every success, every mistake, every moment matters.” Murphy stated in her opening remarks. “You may not get to choose everything that happens in your life, but you always get to choose how you respond.”
After a slideshow highlighting how much fun the 2024-25 school year has been and recognizing four students for outstanding achievements, classes 136, 137 and 119 performed “Moments to Memories” by Adeline Hill. Accompanied by Angela Crisci on guitar, students sang and performed a choreographed dance to the beautiful song!
The next section of the ceremony was just as touching as students had the chance to present flowers to a person of their choice who had helped them grow and achieve this tremendous milestone in their lives. Students walked through the audience to find their chosen person, shared a special moment giving flowers and a hug, and returned to their seats with smiles on their faces.
No one could have imagined the energy and joy eighth grader Lillian Andrews brought to the ceremony with her rendition of “Celebration” by Kool & The Gang. “Come on everyone!” Andrews called into the microphone. “I want to hear everyone singing!”
The crowd responded with laughter, clapping to the beat and singing Andrews revised lyrics for the occasion: “Graduation time, come on!”
Then, students were awarded their certificates by their teachers; sharing hugs, handshakes, and cheers! “I’m so thankful for everyone who has helped me get to this point!” exclaimed Andrews.
One parent stayed standing for every student. “I’m just so proud of all of them! Even the ones I don’t know.” Lastly, Thomas Davis in class 107 was awarded the TEG Financial Award for Outstanding Achievement. Murphy shared about Davis’ character, stating he is honest, hardworking, and determined. “He has come a long way,” she said. “We are very proud of him!”
As the processional out of the gym began, everyone rose to their feet to clap and cheer for the students. Students danced, high-fived and blew kisses down the aisle. Congratulations to SPC’s eighth graders on reaching this milestone.
