Copiague Middle School’s eighth graders celebrated the end of their middle school years and the start of their academic journey at Walter G. O’Connell Copiague High School during their moving up ceremonies on June 25 at the Copiague Middle School auditorium.

The students marched into the ceremony to “Pomp and Circumstance” played by members of the Tri-M Music Honor Society. Copiague School District Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kathleen Bannon addressed the soon-to-be middle school graduates. 

“When you moved up from the elementary schools to the middle school three years ago, I am sure you never thought the time would pass as quickly as it did,” Dr. Bannon said. “Because the time goes so quickly, we want to be sure that you take advantage of what the high school has to offer you. High school isn’t only about academics; there’s so much more to do outside the school day. There are more than 40 clubs at the high school, musical groups and sports – find something that interests you. I encourage you to get involved. You don’t want to be someone who looks back four years from now and says, ‘I wish I had or I should have tried.’ Instead be someone who says, ‘I did it all and I have no regrets.’”

Class representative Emmylie Coreas spoke during the first ceremony of the day about her three-year middle school journey. “As we went through middle school, we all started to build character, maturity, responsibility and growth,” she said. “The immense support of the teachers, staff and administrators helped us to grow. I hope we leave the middle school with a feeling of achievement and each one of us feels proud of their hard work.”

Middle School Principal Andrew Lagnado then introduced the students as the Walter G. O’Connell Copiague High School Class of 2023. “As you enter this next phase of your education, be sure to remember a few important things that will set you up for success,” he said. “Stay involved in all the positive things that are offered at our high school. There are so many wonderful academic and extracurricular activities for you to take advantage of. Try a new activity, a new sport, take an interesting elective, get out of your comfort zone and take a risk. Stay motivated, focused and goal driven. Go that extra mile because what you put into it will determine what you get out of it. These next few years will lay the groundwork for your futures. So, remember to always make positive decisions, work hard and simply be a good person.”

Middle School assistant principals Stephanie Valeiko and Michael Ferretti then announced each student’s name as they walked across the stage and received their certificates from Mr. Lagnado and a congratulations from Dr. Bannon.