Following seven years as Bellmore Stars, the Shore Road sixth-grade Class of 2013 gathered together one final time to celebrate their successes and accomplishments at their moving-up ceremony on June 17. Members of the Board of Education, administrators, and family and friends proudly looked on from the Kennedy High School auditorium as the sixth-graders ended their journey as elementary students and prepared to embark on the next phase of their educational careers.

“Today marks a milestone in your education,” said Shore Road Principal Patrice Matthews. “You may be feeling many emotions today — excitement, happiness, anticipation and even a little nervousness. To that I say to you, stand tall. We have worked to prepare you with confidence for the challenges ahead. With your Bellmore core values in place, you will always meet with success.”

Added Superintendent of Schools Dr. Joseph S. Famularo, “Time and time again you have demonstrated the Bellmore core values of dedication, respect, integrity, trust and teamwork. You have also shown kindness, caring and compassion through countless acts of community service. If you each tap into that specialness inside of you, you will always experience success.”

In addition to speeches offering advice, guidance and congratulations, audience members were treated to musical performances, a class history and the presentation of the class gift.

Offering final words to the students, Board of Education President Brian Desmond stated, “The Class of 2013 is the Class of Hope. That is what you stand for. Now at graduation, you prepare to move on to the high school district. This is a big step, but one that you are prepared for. My hope for you is that you do well in your endeavors, stand for change, keep in touch with your friends and be true to yourself.”

 Following the presentation of diplomas, the newest class of elementary school graduates gathered with parents, family members and friends to take time and rejoice in their accomplishments.