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Eighth Grade Ceremony Celebrates McDonogh Joy

The Eighth Grade Closing Ceremony at Childs Memorial Terrace, on a picture-perfect morning, had all the elements one could hope for–awards, songs, certificates, inspirational speeches, and proud students and parents.

The program on Monday, June 3 began with student speakers Rajan Marwaha who looked at the journey the Class of 2028 has taken through Lower School and Middle School, and Maxine Koymen who addressed the next steps. She said, "So, as we enter Upper School, here is my challenge for you: embrace the road trip. Focus not only on the end result, but on the growth that happens along the way. Enjoy your company and surround yourself with people that encourage you to be the best version of yourself. Take detours and forge paths through roads untraveled."

After the awards presentation, Head of Middle School Robyn Little imparted her own advice concluding, "Class of 2028, continue to soar like the Eagles you are. An eagle symbolizes strength. Be courageous. Through this courage, you will earn the respect of your peers. The Middle School faculty will always be in the background cheering you on."

Then, Head of School Dave Farace '87, Associate Head of School Kate Mueller, Associate Head of Middle School Becca Mungai, and longtime faculty member Jon Aaron '72 joined Little to present the Class of 2028 with their certificates. Following the milestone moment, the McDonogh Singers under the direction of Suzi Eldridge, sang the Dedication Hymn, and the Charles W. Britton Director of Character and Service Bridget Collins '90 gave the benediction. 

To the delight of the students, the ceremony had a surprise ending: the tossing of blazers, a rite of passage traditionally reserved for the fourth grade at the Lower School ceremony. Four years ago, the Class of 2028 missed the ceremonial blazer toss, due to the pandemic. Before moving to Upper School, they relished the opportunity to celebrate as they would have done at the end of their Lower School years.