D-E’s 5th Grade Moving Up Ceremony for the Class of 2033 was significant not only because it marked the transition from Lower School to Middle School for 47 of our students, but also because it was the first Moving Up with Mr. James Choi as the LS Principal and Ms. Madeleine Lopez and Ms. Jessica Massei as Assistant Principals. In joint welcome remarks, Ms. Massei and Ms. Lopez noted that student speakers from each of the three 5th grade classes would be describing their student journeys from the perspectives of looking back (from wearing masks in Kindergarten during the Covid-19 pandemic to service learning as part of Third Graders Making a Difference), recalling the current school year (including projects, field trips, and trends like the viral 6-7 meme), and anticipating the future, where more “freedom and independence” awaits them.

Following the 5th graders performing their class song, “Wherever I Go,” by Andrew Dodd and Adam Watts, Mr. Choi gave remarks that referenced the memorable lyrics of “Seasons of Love” from the Broadway musical “Rent.” He relayed that among the best ways for students to measure their MS success would be in moments of courage when they are facing new challenges and by expanding their horizons. MS Principal Mr. Jonathan Davis then spoke directly to the students to welcome and advise them that the two most important rules they should keep in mind is to “be kind and do the right thing.” During the presentation of the rising 6th graders by Ms. Molly Davis, Ms. Jessica Pomeroy, and Mr. Michael Rodenbush, students were given a box containing a butterfly to be released in the presence of their families, as a symbol of transformation. Congratulations on all you’ve accomplished, Class of 2033!