The Caroline G. Atkinson School sixth-grade moving-up ceremony celebrated the educational advancement of nearly 500 students as they crossed the divide between intermediate and middle school. "You need to work harder and smarter, and you need to step up," said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kishore Kuncham in his motivational address to the students and all those gathered on the school lawn.
Special recognition awards were announced, and for sake of time given the heat of the day, the graduates stood at their seats as their names were called in lieu of a procession to the podium.
The program also spotlighted the considerable musical talents of this class, starting with graduating sixth-grader Shania Hackett singing the national anthem and continuing with performances from the jazz ensemble and the sixth-grade chorus.
"Make good choices. You will have success in life if you make good choices," was the advice dispensed by Board of Education Vice President Debra Mulé during her turn at the podium.
The graduation was bittersweet for Principal Linda Carter, as this was her final one at Atkinson. Ms. Carter is transitioning to her new role as principal of the high school for the coming year, meaning that in two years these graduates will be reunited with her once they have completed their junior high school academics.
