Cass Chang explained what he’s expecting in high school before stepping on stage to receive his certificate at Bulkeley Middle School’s eighth grade moving up ceremony. Chang was one of 77 eighth graders to receive a certificate.
“I have to start thinking about my future and taking school more seriously,” said Chang, who plans to play soccer and run track in high school. “It means getting more independence. I’ll have more options for what I want to do for fun and to learn.”
The evening began with an ice cream social, sponsored by the Rhinebeck PTSO, before students and their families headed to the auditorium for the ceremony. Principal John Kemnitzer delivered the opening remarks and Edwin Davenport, high school principal, followed by welcoming the Class of 2030 to the high school.
There were classroom awards and academic excellence awards given before each student received their certificate.
“This group of eighth grade students will be sorely missed,” said Kemnitzer. “Not only are they a talented bunch academically, athletically, musically, artistically, and theatrically, they are leaders and role models in our building and have been since they entered back in sixth grade.”
Luke Allman, who played doubles on the high school varsity tennis team, enjoyed his French and science classes, and shared what he’ll miss about BMS.
“I’m going to miss the community of people, and all my friends and teachers I’ve gotten to know over the last three years,” he said. “I like how we’re a smaller school. I feel more connected to everyone because I know everyone in my grade.”
Miles Hotaling, who plans on playing soccer and basketball in high school, enjoyed social studies and technology classes in middle school. He appreciated the time he spent with family and friends at the ice cream social and ceremony.
“This was my favorite year of middle school because of the teachers,” he said. “I’m going to remember my teachers and my friends, and the time I spent with them.
“It’s a great community of teachers and people.”