Class of 2030: 8th Grade Moving Up Ceremony Highlights

Jun 16, 2026 | D-E Traditions, Recent News

The Class of 2030 is moving on up! During a ceremony in Schenck Auditorium, 93 8th graders celebrated the transition to high school with a ceremony filled with warm memories of their Middle School experiences and words of advice to guide them into their next chapter. Following opening remarks from Middle School Principal Mr. Jonathan Davis P’24, Mr. Alex Kuchar, P’34, ’37, 8th Grade Social Studies Teacher and Coach, spoke about the impact of enjoying this time with friends and family, and looking ahead to their next steps with anticipation and a greater sense of independence. Several student speakers then reflected on unforgettable moments, and Ella Gorcie ’30 and Gigi Nwankpah ’30 sang “For Good” from the Broadway musical WICKED. During the presentation of certificates, 8th Grade Dean Ms. Ali Miller P’28 told 8th graders that, “You’ve grown a lot… You’ve been loud… We are proud of you, and we’re going to miss you.” Head of School Dr. James Calleroz White P’27, ’28, ’33 closed the ceremony by recalling sage advice he received from one of his college mentors and encouraging the rising 9th graders to similarly “own” their experiences in the Upper School. “If you take ownership, you’ll have no regrets,” he said. Congratulations, Class of 2030!
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