Shore Road sixth grade students marked their final elementary school milestone during the school’s annual promotion ceremony, held virtually on June 16. The annual promotion did not look the same as years past, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but became a “unique” and “special” memory for the entire class.

Superintendent for Schools Dr. Joseph Famularo said, “Graduation is just different than what we expected.” He noted in reminiscing on all of the past great graduations, “I will remember yours forever.”

Dr. Famularo also told the students that they have learned important lessons of flexibility and proactivity and that they were “forced to act on what they had control over,” important leadership lessons. Principal Patrice Matthews thanked the students for “being role models for us all.” She said, “March 13 was not an endpoint to your sixth grade experiences. Our new normal may have looked different, but you still continued your journey and with that came many new experiences that you will remember for a lifetime.”

Board of Education President Janet Goller compared the students’ strength to Abraham Lincoln, an historical figure who had to overcome obstacles and persevere through life. “Life is full of unexpected roadblocks,” Ms. Goller said. “Chart your own path in life and work hard for something you believe in or for what inspires you.”

PTA Co-Presidents Chantal Dembo and Barbara LaGalia told students that they were doing social distancing gardening with 140 seeds that represent their growth as individuals and students. “The conditions for seeds are always changing, but the real growth lies in the ability to be resilient and being able to adapt to changes,” Ms. Dembo said. Ms. LaGalia gave words of wisdom, “As you mature and blossom, be sure to continue to seek guidance.”

The students’ school photos were then flashed on the screen, commemorating their completion of elementary school.

Prior to the release of the promotion video, Shore Road faculty held a drive-through celebration in the school parking area. Seated in their cars, the students received their diplomas, end of year certificates and gifts from the PTA. There was also an opportunity for each student to take a photo in front of a decorative class sign as faculty cheered and waved goodbye.

Click here to view the video.