LB Fifth- and Eighth-Graders Move Up 

Fifth-graders and eighth-graders advanced to their next phases of education during the week of June 18, when East, Lido, Lindell and West Elementary Schools and Long Beach Middle School held promotion ceremonies. The celebrations were filled with pride as the students were joined by members of their families and the district’s Board of Education, administration and staff. 

The middle school event, held on the evening of June 20, honored students’ completion of three years of determination, effort and teamwork. This eighth-grade class was the first to complete Middle Years Program Community Projects, which strengthened students’ sense of good citizenship and ability to make a difference. The students have experienced an educational program based on philosophies that will help them to succeed in the high school years that they will now embark upon. 

At the elementary level, each school’s gathering had a specific theme that was portrayed through decorations, music and more. East School’s event was named, “I Can and I Will. Watch Me.” Lido School’s was fittingly titled, “Celebrate.” Lindell School sent off its graduates with a “Tomorrow Starts Today” program, and West School encouraged all to “Dream Big” and aim for the stars.  

Student speakers from the five buildings addressed their peers and audience members with reflections about their experiences thus far, and the endless possibilities ahead. Middle school principal Paul Romanelli and elementary school principals Kathleen Connolly, Patrick McKinney, Karen Sauter and Brenda Young shared positive sentiments with their respective graduates. The event at West also featured a special acknowledgment of retiring Teacher-In-Charge Donna Fee, and past principal Sandy Schneider took the podium and shared many positive reflections about her former colleague.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Jennifer Gallagher and Board of Education members also commended the students, and all ceremonies featured special award presentations to students who have excelled in academics, music, art, community involvement and a number of other areas. 

East, Lindell and West Schools’ promotions were held in their respective buildings, while Lido’s took place in the high school auditorium and Long Beach Middle School’s ceremony was held on Veteran’s Field. 

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