--------- Heat. Heat. [Music] [Music] [Music]
Happy. [Music] Heat. [Music]
Heat. [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music]
Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music]
Heat [Applause] [Music] up [Music] here. [Music]
[Music] Heat up [Music] here.
[Music] Heat up here. [Music]
Please stand for the pledge of allegiance. I pledge algiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and
justice for all. Please be seated. Good morning everyone. It is so nice to see all of you today on this very special day. As you might imagine, this is very bittersweet for me every year. Um, because it's always so exciting to know that the children are ready for
middle school and that we're sending them off and celebrating them. At the same time, it is always so sad to know that they won't be with us next year at Berkeley. Um, I want you to know, boys and girls, just looking at all of you today, I am filled
with such pride. You have been an outstanding class this year especially. You have risen to every challenge. You are kind. You are purposeful. You are thoughtful. You take care of each other.
You embody everything that we really want for the children. We get you at such a tender age. And what we want from you is that you grow up to be good people. And I know that all of you are. And I am so very, very proud of you. And I am going to miss you. Many times,
especially today, people are always quick to say why they worry about the future. But I want you to know the reason I love being an educator is because I never worry about the future because I have the gift of watching children turn into wonderful human beings right before my very eyes. And
that's what you are. You are going to grow up in a world that really needs you. And I know that you're ready for that. So, I congratulate you. I will miss you. I love you and I want you right now to take a look to your left
and then to your right and just acknowledge how beautiful you are and all the beautiful friendships you have and how very much all of us at Berkeley love you. Congratulations.
[Applause] I'm sorry. I still get so nervous. Mr. Colasso, superintendent. [Music] I wasn't waiting for the formal introduction. I just I I need the queue.
That's all I need. So, I want to thank you all for being here. You know, teachers, Dr. Chris Mall, parents, uh, any esteemed guest that came in to watch this moving up ceremony. It is a moving up ceremony. I'm proud of them. U, but
this is not a celebration of them, you know, passing fifth grade. They have to, you know, that it's illegal for you not to pass fifth grade. So, we have to send you to sixth grade at some time. And I want you to know that. So, this is really not about, "Yay, you did it."
It's more about how you did it. I'm going to echo exactly what Dr. Chris Moa said in all this. I haven't been around for six years watching these kids grow. So, I'm not going to use the cliches. You've grown so much. You know, I've seen how smart you've gotten, the friendships you've made. I haven't I
haven't seen them really over a six year span, but there's some things that I did see that are allow me to understand what this grade has meant to Berkeley school. You saw with Dr. Prismales. She's beaming with pride about these kids
often. Always. She's like, "My children. My children." Sound a little creepy, but I'm not kidding. I'm kidding. My children. She She used the word love in there and she means it. She sees the future in them. That's a reflection that mirrors how you make Dr. Chris Mollis
feel. You understand that? I see in the teachers. I see them laugh a lot of times, but I also see them frustrated at times, exasperated at times. That's important for me to see. The last thing I want is flat teachers that have no emotion because it means they're not
emotionally connected. And when I see teachers hysterically laughing and then the next day like what what do I do? That's important to me because it means that they care about you. It means that you've made an imprint on them and they want you to succeed and they're working for you. You understand that? That's
really important. So, I thank the teachers for that. And little things like on Fridays I come to Berkeley and I do the drop off. It's gives Berkeley drop off my favorite parts of the job. Believe it or not, that I continue to do it. It gets me out of my office.
Um, even seeing officer Joe, crazy officer Joe, who happened to be my high school football coach. So, it's full circle for me and how he interacts with kids. He opens the doors. He plays tag with them. He kids with them. He knows every single person's name. So an SRO,
nothing. You have to instill that on him to want to get to know you. So those are the things that I've seen over this year to make me know that this is a special class that's worthy of, you know, fond
memories. So my only advice really is this. As you transition to sixth grade, don't worry about the academics because if you work hard and show up every day, you will be fine with academics. Correct? Work hard, show up every day,
you'll be fine. The social piece you have to figure out. I have no, you know, magic potion to make you figure out the social piece. Middle school is interesting. We all live through it. Um, and you will live through it and get through it just like you did at the elementary school. Thank you for being
my first grade and my first moving up ceremony. I appreciate it. I appreciate all your support. I appreciate your support of these children, Dr. Smalls, the teachers, everybody. Congratulations. [Applause] [Music]
Good morning. Uh my name is Eric Legand and I'm the uh string orchestra and uh band instructor at Berkeley. And uh today I'd like to recognize those uh fifth grade students who participated in band and string orchestra.
Uh so for the past uh two years these students have uh met twice a week uh with me for lessons and full uh rehearsals and we perform winter and uh spring concerts. Um, for those of you you were here for the uh uh Winter
Spring concerts, you know how uh fantastically they play. They're really a special group and I'm uh super proud of them and I'm really going to miss them a lot. Um Deeo will be lucky to have them. I will uh call your names and
when I do please stand and uh audience if you'd hold your applause until the end that would be appreciated. So here we go. uh Sanvi Banerjee, Fabio Denise, [Applause] Jazir Elansi, Na Kosi, Marca,
Samantha Record, Isabella Rivera, Nate Rizas, Felix Cino, I'm sorry, Smonia, Zana Enan, Clara San Pedro, Sophia Faris, Epic, Aaron Fernandez,
Jack Coochis, Owen Beltoff, Callie Desario, Nina Liowitz, Jamie Lucen, Briana Mera Cortoiel, Keithan Phillip Manaz, Nia Mula, Nor Muhammed,
Nathano, McKenzie Seymour, Jordania, Caitlyn Guerrero, and Ronan Mner. [Music]
I'd like to introduce a Hi everyone. Um, I'm Miss Acriman and I'm the music teacher at Berkeley and I've had the pleasure to teach all of these fifth graders in music class as well as a select group in the choir. Um, today I would like to recognize the
group of fifth graders that have participated in the choir this year. Um, they met every week of school um, and they were working on vocal technique and they were learning challenging repertoire in preparation to perform together. um they were able to
master I did a diverse range of music including songs using two-part harmony and songs in different languages. Um their dedication and teamwork have truly shown through every rehearsal and performance. Um they were able to put on two amazing concerts this year. Um one
was in the winter and one was actually just last week. Um, I'm so proud of all they have accomplished and I am so honored that these talented fifth graders have shared their love of singing with me and all of you guys over the past year. Um, as they move ahead to middle school, I hope they embrace their
passion for singing and continue to create music together. I would now like to ask all of the fifth graders who participated in choir this year to please stand. [Applause] [Music]
I would now like to welcome Miss Posher. A little short. Sorry about that. Uh, good morning everyone. My name is Miss Poshel and I am the book club adviser for fourth and fifth grade at Berkeley. This year in book club, we read about an adventurous cricket who ended up in New
York City and a mystery in which a class goldfish went missing. We explored sports themed books with author Matthew Christopher and read about Hank Ziper, a character inspired and written by Henry Winkler aka the Fonts.
We learned that reading has the ability to bring us to new places, meet new people, and learn more about the world around us without ever leaving home. At this time, I would like to recognize the fifth grade students who participated in book club for the 2024 2025 school year.
When I say your name, please stand so we may acknowledge your participation. You will receive your certificates after the ceremony. Please hold your applause until all names have been read. Kavia Dineker, Aaron Fernandez,
Zanap Anan, and Clara San Pedro. [Applause] [Music] Thank you so much to all of the book club members for your hard work, creative ideas, and dedication to learning. I will miss each of you and
wish you the best of luck at DEO in September. Up next are kindergarten and first grade memories. I remember in kindergarten stepping into Berkeley for the first ever time in my life. when we dressed up for the 100th day of
school as old people in kindergarten. I remember in kindergarten when we had a K& wedding. I remember in kindergarten when our tricks touched. I remember first grade when we had a Google Google meet and we were reading
the dark blankets and flashlights. In first grade, we were always having dance parties for Friday on our Chromebooks because of co I remember in first grade when we watched four express in first grade. I remember eating snack
outside my class and having half days. [Applause] [Music] [Applause] Good morning everyone, families, friends, teachers, and of course our
amazing fifth grade class. I am Miss Andrews and I have the privilege of working with the fifth grade reach students. REACH stands for reaching excellence through academic challenge. Today we are here to celebrate a truly
outstanding group of learners. Over the past year, you've shown incredible curiosity, creativity, and courage. You didn't just learn, you explored, you discovered, and you invented. And you did it all with big ideas, even bigger
imaginations, and hearts full of determination. I'd like to take a moment to look back at this amazing journey. In your first unit, you became historians, digging deep into the mysteries of ancient Egypt. You uncovered secrets of the
pyramids, studied hieroglyphics, and even turned Barbie dolls into mummies using plaster of Paris. It certainly was a messy project, but even more so a memorable one. Then, in your second unit, you became scientists and community builders
studying solar energy. You learn how the sun, our closest star, can power homes, schools, and even entire cities. But you didn't stop there. You designed your own communities powered by clean energy. You showed us what the future could look
like and it looks bright thanks to you. And finally, in our last unit, you put on your entrepreneur hats in your last unit Shark Tank style. You didn't just imagine new inventions. You created them, designed them, and pitched them
like real CEOs. Whether it was a product to solve everyday problems or an invention that could change the world, you proved that innovation has no age limit, each one of you has grown in more ways than we can count. You've learned
to ask big questions, take smart risks, and support one another along the way. That's the true spirit of the REACH program. Not just being smart, but being creative, passionate, and ready to make a difference. At this time, I would like
to recognize the fifth grade students who participated in breach. When I say your name, please stand so we may acknowledge your hard work. You will receive your certificates after the ceremony. Please hold your applause until all names have been read.
Svi Banerjee, Valentina Fernandez, Caitlyn Guerrero, Steven Ismolof, Jack Kachis, Nina Leoitz,
Nate Pistano, Claraara San Pedro. To our students, I am so proud of everything you have accomplished this year. You've shown what is possible when talent meets hard work. The future is yours to shape and if this year is any
clue, it's going to be amazing. To the families, thank you for cheering them on, driving them early to school, listening to their ideas, and always believing in them. And so to our brilliant young students, congratulations. Keep exploring, keep
imagining, and most of all, keep being you. You are not just ready for middle school, you are ready for the world. Thank you and congratulations. Up next is Miss Ventino. Good morning. Student council is a club composed of fifth graders who exhibit
traits of leadership and responsibility. It is the goal of the student council to participate in activities that help not only the school but the larger community. It was a pleasure working with this year's student council members. They were enthusiastic, fun, and a part of so many incredible
Berkeley events. This year, student council participated in a number of initiatives for positive change. I would like to highlight a few of our many successful events from this year. Our group continued the partnership with the Burough's recycling program in which
students collected plastic recycling from the classrooms each day for pickup. We participated in many events such as our first turkey trot which helped collect an abundance of food for three local food pantries in the area. The students created an amazing Google Slide
presentation that was presented to each classroom as a morning meeting to raise funds for hurricane relief which in one short week we raised almost $1,000 for the American Red Cross Association. With many encouraging and exciting events in our building, the student council helped
to foster our very positive Berkeley school community. I was honored to work with them and be with them after school. They were a wonderful bunch of students and that is a big gift to say that to parents because you raised them and you made them be students that I wanted to
hang out with after school. So to be with them after school was really, really, really special. And they were just a really nice group of kids that were so enthusiastic about making the halls of Berkeley even more fun and exciting. So I would like all the
members of the Berkeley Student Council to please stand as we acknowledge them for their dedication this school year. [Applause] [Music] student council members, you may sit. Thank you for everything you did this
year. All the times that I called on you last minute to come down, you jumped into carnivals and everything for me. So, I appreciate it. Um, up next, grade two to three memories. My second grade memory is when we did star stew.
I remember in second grade we made our flower pots and it was so fun to see our plants grow. My favorite second grade memory was when we examined the butterflies. I remember in second grade having our first field day.
I remember in third grade when we had crayfish in science class. We loved our class pets. I remember in third grade when we went to the book fair. Best diary would be kids book I ever read. I remember when I went on a field trip
to the terrifying nature center and I saw a snake. I remember in third grade that we had merry money and let me just say I was the richest out of the entire class. More than $200. [Applause] [Music]
[Applause] [Music] Good morning, Berkeley students, family, staff, and administration. My name is Miss Andrews and my name is Miss Poshel, and we both teach fourth grade at Berkeley Street School. We are the spirit club coordinators and we would
like to recognize the fifth grade students who participated in spirit club for the 2024 2025 school year. The spirit club members helped to organize and advertise for upcoming events to build school spirit and give back to our
community. This year, Spirit Club wrote letters to veterans, sponsored a grade level color contest, distributed Valentine Grams throughout the school, and sponsored other friendly contests, including Green Day for St. Patrick's Day and Red, White, and Blue Day for
Memorial Day. At this time, we would like to recognize the fifth grade students who participated in spirit club. When we say your name, please stand so we may acknowledge your service. You will receive your certificates after the ceremony. Please hold your applause
until all names have been called. Sanvi Banerjee, Melena Chavez, Aras, Cavia Dinegar, Anelise Doyora, Jir Alansi, Zanep Anan,
Jack Kachis, Nha Koshi, Jamie Lucian, Norah Muhammad, Clara Sanedro, Jordan Ray Watson. Please give a round of applause for [Music]
Thank you so much to all of the spirit club members for your hard work, service, and positive attitude this year. We wish you and the entire fifth grade class the best of luck at David Owens Middle School next year. [Applause]
Good morning, Berkeley Street School students, parents, staff, and administration. It is with great pleasure that Miss Andrews and I are here today to recognize the hard work and dedication of our fifth grade safety patrols for the 2024 2025 school year. The safety
patrol members are leaders in our school community. They help younger students stay safe in the hallways each morning and assist during dismissal after school. These students are role models who show what it means to be respectful, responsible, and trustworthy. Their
efforts make our school a better place for everyone. Additionally, this year, several safety patrols assisted with kindergarten orientation. They greeted the incoming kindergarteners and their families, giving them a warm welcome to our school
community. Their hard work does not go unnoticed, and the example they set inspires all students at Berkeley. At this time, we would like to acknowledge the hard work of our safety patrol members. When we call your name, please stand and hold your applause
until all names are announced. Sophia Barisavic, Owen Belto, Marggo Champagne, Lucy Kurubia, Anelise Doyora, Jordan Etchimarius,
Jier Alansi, Paige Angelhart, Marilyn Joy Paras, Escera, Angelo Estz, Aaron Fernandez, Valentina Fernandez, Caitlyn Guerrero,
Olivia Ia Kenny, Nina Liboitz, Jamie Lucian, Briana Madera Corto, Rial, Nor Muhammed, Aransa Neto, Celeste Spa, Samantha Rort, Clara San
Pedro, Chloe Schlesinger, McKenzie Seymour. Let's give our safety patrols a big round of applause. [Applause] [Music] [Applause]
Congratulations to all of the fifth graders. Best of luck as you begin this exciting journey into middle school. We are so proud of you. Up next, fourth and fifth grade memories. I remember in fourth grade when we saw the solar eclipse on the smartboard.
I remember in fourth grade having a DJ night and meeting new friends. I remember in fourth grade when we had ice cream for the NJs. I remember in fifth grade we had our balloon over Berkeley balloon break. It was so fun designing and creating our
own balloons. I remember in fifth grade when we got to switch classes for the first time. My fifth grade memory is about lead classes where I learned a lot of useful and interesting information. As a prize for graduating, we had a pizza party.
In fifth grade, I remember going on a field trip to the Maritime Aquarium powerhouse and deeo. A fifth grade memory was when Mrs. Martin told us she was going to pass the supporter for every time we used the glue stick. We were all so nervous until we realized it was part of her social
studies lesson. You got us. [Applause] Don't need these to read just yet. Okay. Good morning. My name is Mrs. Bum. I'm the PE teacher at Berkeley Street School. I will be presenting the
outstanding physical education award to two individuals. Throughout the year, these students have exhibited a physically healthy and active lifestyle both during and outside of school. Demonstrated responsible personal and
social behavior which includes good sportsmanship, cooperation, participation, effort, attitude, and performance. They also received exceptional achievement in physical education class for three marking periods, which means they received
enough. this year's physical education award recipients and it's for two people so just hold the applause after two and you will also receive your certificate after school or during when you get back and Nia Libo
[Applause] [Music] great job and just two I guess piece of advice one for the youngsters and one's for the crowd mostly the parents. I guess health is wealth and exercise is
the way to keep it. And for our parents, happy, healthy children, excuse me, the other way around. Happy, healthy parents make happy, healthy children. Good luck, [Music]
[Applause] Mr. Her. Good morning everyone. I have the honor today to present the Junior Women's Club of Riverdale and New Milford's most improved student award. This award goes
to one student out of the 2025 class. When I call your name, please stand up to be acknowledged. You will receive your certificate when we return back to school. This year's recipient is Nate Rizzes. Congratulations.
[Applause] Now, it's my pleasure to introduce to the recipients of the principal's award. As you might imagine, this is very, very, very difficult, a very difficult
choice to make. Uh the teachers take part in a very comprehensive selection process and um I am filled with joy and pride to announce this year's recipients. First Clara San Peter
and Aon B. These children are the embodiment of everything we hope our children take with them. They are just super special just like all the children on this stage. I congratulate you for a job well done. [Applause]
[Music] Begin the process of the presentation of the certificates of promotion. Mrs. Burns and Mr. Velasa, we're going to ask you to join us, please. 5 please rise.
Michael the Kay [Applause] Margo Champagne, Holly Connelly, [Applause]
Jazir Alan [Applause] Paige Angelhart, we love you, Marilyn Joy Harris.
Mason Griman, [Applause] Olivia Cunning, Eliza Lel, Martin Pava, Samantha Reich,
[Applause] Isabella Rivera, Nate Ria, few more. Congratulations. I'm so proud of you. You may be seated.
5G, please stand up. Sure. One second. You want Lucy Carubian Jordan at Chavaria, Devin Fe, [Applause]
Samir G, Caitlyn Guerrero, [Applause] Aten H Steven is my Jamie Lucian
Brianna Madera Portugu We are Nia Mikula, [Applause] Shafira Oolo, Melvin Park, Jeremiah Pastor
[Applause] Justin Puna, Dariel Rosario, Abian Ba, Jordan Ray, Watson. Congratulations 5G.
[Applause] 5 L please stand Bery C Palamuso, Briana Conturz, Penezo, Callie Desidario,
Kalia Dcker, Zamari Felton, [Applause] Zena Patul nor Nha Koshi,
[Applause] Martha Kaval, Mason Lacy, [Applause] Nina, Lea, Ethan Phillip, Manlopaz,
Salame, Mayor Ros, Marcus Ponio, Adrien Perez, Nick Pollock, Dono Cano, Cortez, Clara Beatatric San Pedro. [Applause] Congratulations 5. Always remember that
after a storm comes a rainbow. [Applause] Please rise. Angelique Bahana, Sophia Faris,
[Applause] Owen Belto, Melenna Chavez, Arya, [Music] Angelo Estz, Aaron Fernandez, Valentina Fernandez,
Jack Kachas, Nor Muhammad, [Applause] Ronan Mardaro, Aransa Niento,
[Applause] Celeste Oina, [Applause] Pepper Beani,
[Applause] [Music] Ariel Kenya. [Applause] Nathaniel Bistano,
[Applause] Han Careshi, [Applause] Chloe Schlesinger,
[Applause] Felix Ceremonia. Congratulations 5 M. [Applause]
Grade five, please rise for the Berkeley Street song. [Music] In a town where dreams take flight, there's a school that shines so bright. Where laughter fills the air each day.
Berkeley Street School is here to say, "Oh, Berkeley Street, we're a family learning and growing with privacy. From K to 5. [Music]
Every day we explore and learn. In science and songs, the earth, art and sports, we try it all. At Berkeley Street School, we stand so tall. Oh, Berkeley Street. We're a
family learning and growing with pride. You see from reach by the sky school let our spirits fly. The friends we make are forever true.
Building memories that are old and new. With kindness and respect we will unite. Berkeley Street School is shining so bright. Oh, Berkeley Street.
[Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] So now before I present the class to
you, I'd like to offer a big thank you to Mr. Gasasso and Miss Odoxster for joining us this morning, taking time out of your busy schedules. I would also be remiss if I didn't acknowledge the hard work of all the teachers, especially the fifth grade team for this beautiful performance. As you might imagine, it's
not easy to put this all together. So, thank you for the great teachers and a very big thank you to all the teachers that do such a wonderful job with our children every day. The Berkeley Street School staff is truly outstanding and it is my honor and privilege to work
alongside them each and every day. Thank you parents for coming. And now comes the moment of truth. I present to you Well, first I'll have them stand. Please stand. Fifth graders, I present to you the class of 2025.
[Applause] Heat. Heat. [Music]
Heat. [Music] [Applause] [Music] Heat.
[Music] [Music] Yeah, [Applause] [Music]
heat. Heat. [Music] [Applause] Heat. [Music]
[Applause] Heat. Heat. [Music] [Applause] [Music]
Heat. [Music] Heat. [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Music] [Applause] [Music]
[Applause] Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat.
[Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Music] Yeah, Sarah.
[Music] [Music] [Applause] Thank you so much, Karen. Please remember that we'll be waiting for you at our gymnasium for some light refreshments to celebrate the children
at Berkeley Street School. Congratulations to you as well. Bye-bye. [Music]
[Applause] [Music] Part: 2
Good morning everyone and welcome to the BFG Gibbs fifth grade moving up ceremony. Let's take a moment to welcome the graduates of 2025. 2.
Woo! Woo! Yeah! Heat. Heat. Another At this time, I would like to welcome Kenn and Kasa Wazawa to come up for the pledge of allegiance.
Please stand. To the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Please be seated.
I want to take a moment and just welcome everyone again to our fifth grade moving up ceremony. This is always such a very special day and we have a lot of exciting things in store for you this afternoon. I want to welcome everyone. My name is
Jessica Tori. I'm the very proud principal of BF Gibbs Elementary School. And I'd like to start our morning together by introducing Mr. Picasso, our superintendent of schools. So, thank you all for coming here today. It's a special day. I want to thank the
teachers, administration, Miss Odoxa, Miss Paul Castro, Miss Tori, um the students, parents, any other family members that are here today, cousins, aunts, uncles. The one wonderful thing about New Guford is it is a community. And I wouldn't be surprised if second cousins are here, third cousins are
here, uh, as it extends and we feel a sense of community and pride. Um, the moving up ceremonies are interesting to me because it's not a graduation. I want to make that clear, right? It is actually illegal for these kids not to pass fifth grade. It's compulsory education. They have to go. They got
good grades. If you didn't get good grades, eventually you'd get there anyway. So, it's not about them being promoted to sixth grade because that had to happen. It's more important about how you made that happen and what you did in HIPS. I've only been here for a
year, a little less than a year. So, I can't speak to and I'm not going to fib and say I've seen these kids grow from preK or kindergarten through fifth grade and they're smarter and bigger and stronger and faster and more academic and they've made friendships because I haven't been there that long. However, I
can tell you how they have made me feel and I know made the teachers feel and I think that is a sense of accomplishment that you're going to see. So, first of all, Gibbs gives me more fist pounds. These fifth graders and Gibbs give me more fist pounds than any other school
in the district. So I want to thank you for that because that makes me feel very welcome. I a new guy that makes me feel included. And I will say the school is only as good as it oldest class. So this being a
fifth grade class, if they were duds, school would be a dud, right? It is not a dud. It's a happening school. There's a lot goes on. They have set the tone and the culture for inclusivity. for welcoming me and working hard for the teachers. So, I want to thank you for
that. The other thing I see that's very important I think is lost sometimes. I've seen teachers and talked to teachers that are smiling from ear to ear, laughing hysterically at some of the things these kids do, really proud of their students. But the other times I've seen them extremely frustrated and
often exasperated. And I don't mind that. I don't mind that because that means they care. The worst thing a teacher can be is just flat, right? And they never get too high. They never get too low because they're not invested. So it's important that you see that when a teacher gets frustrated sometimes is not
because they don't like you. It's because they see that you can be even better, right? And that's what I want out of my teachers. That's so important because they see something special in you. And the fact that these teachers laugh and cry is is a good thing because they see something special in them.
Those are the things that I have seen this year and I want them to carry that into middle school. Now, in terms of middle school, academically you will all be okay. The only thing you have to do is show up every day if you can and work hard and academically you will be just
fine. You can never go wrong with working hard. So eliminate that from your work, right? There's no reason to be anxious over that. Work hard, study, show up, you'll be fine, right? The social piece you're going to have to figure out. I'm honest with you, middle
school is tough. We've all been through middle school, right? It's only going to be harder for these kids. But you will make it. You will make it. You have friends. You have parents who care about you. Just look at the stage and the balloons and the number 25. People care about you. You have such you
have such great support. Do you understand that? This is all evidence of that. So, as long as you rely on the right people, you will make it socially as well. Just keep moving forward. I'm proud of you. You were my first promotion class. So, I'm always going to remember you. I'm looking forward to
seeing you in sixth grade. Now, as the smaller people, right, the small fish in a big pond and continue, please, to give me fist bumps because you're going to carry that. And I'm hoping you just spread it, please, because that's that's why I do this job. not not for the angry emails.
I do it for these kids. I sincerely mean that. So, thank you. You've been a special class for me. So, with that being said, congratulations. I wish you the best of luck. Have a great summer. Over the summer, listen to your parents, please. Very, very So, good morning everyone. Good morning,
Mr. Galasso and Miss Odoxa, central office staff, our teachers, parents, family members, and most importantly, our incredible graduating class of fifth grade. When I first joined the new Milford
team, you were in kindergarten. I still have some of the cards that you guys made me to welcome me when I showed up at Gibbs. It seemed like just yesterday, and I know that your parents and your families would probably agree.
And now you all stand before us, taller, wiser, and ready to embark on the next big adventure. middle school. I taught middle school and I happen to love it and I think you are all going to be
fantastic. I want to take a moment to acknowledge all that you've accomplished here at Gibbs. You've learned a tremendous amount in your classes, not just this year, but over the years, and you've
made such lasting friendships that hopefully will last a lifetime. But beyond your academics in the classroom, you are growing into responsible young people. I've seen you
learn how to collaborate, to solve problems, to show kindness and respect. And that's not always easy, especially when we're playing for the World Cup at Refest every day. Right? I
know you faced challenges. You've made some mistakes. and you found yourself explaining some not so great choices to either myself, your parents, or your friends. But I want you to remember our
motto at Gibbs as you move to DEEO because it's still relevant. Do the very best you can until you know better. And then when you know better, your responsibility is to then do better.
Keep growing. And I am so incredibly proud of each and every one of you. Middle school might seem a little daunting. I know it might seem daunting to your parents, but you're going to have new teachers, new
faces, and a new building to navigate. But let me tell you, it's a time that's full of fresh opportunities. Imagine all the new classes and the really fun electives that you get to choose. And there will be adjustments, locker
combinations that you'll have to remember, a more complex schedule to navigate. You might not have classes with people you know, but everyone in your class is going through it together. And everybody who came before you,
including some of your parents, went through it as well. you. I want you to embrace this chance to build new friendships to explore different interests which might be different from your friends and that's okay and
discover who you are as you keep growing into the young adults that you're becoming. So, as you take this next step, please hold on to all of the fun memories you've made here at Gibbs. Remember the laughter in the classroom,
the joy of discovery, the friendships that you've developed, and never stop asking questions. Never stop exploring, and never stop believing in yourself.
The future is bright, and you are more than ready to shine a deeo. So, congratulations on behalf of everyone at Gibbs to the class of 2025. We will always be cheering you on every step of the way.
So, now we're going to move into the award section se section of our um of our morning together. So, I'd like to start by inviting Mr. leg band and Mr. Andolino to the podium.
Good morning. Good morning. Uh my name is Eric Clayband and I'm the string orchestra instructor at Gibbs. Um, but today I would like to recognize those fifth graders who participated in the spring orchestra uh for the past two
years. As fourth graders, they met we met Mon uh Monaco. Wednesdays, three days a week. Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 7:30 a.m. until 8:15 a.m. This year they
got a day off and they only meet Mondays and Tuesdays, but still at 7:30. Anyway, they have they uh besides our rehearsals, we uh perform uh concerts in the winter and again in the spring. And
those of you who were at the uh concerts this year especially know what a great great great job they did. They were really fantastic. It was a truly satisfying experience for me and I think uh for them as well and uh DEEO will be
lucky to have them. Um they're really talented. Um I will call your names when you when I call your name stand up and if you could hold your applause for just a minute. There's only a few names. So, Ro, Meline,
Jasper Phillips, Elelliana, Sanjay, Santiago Cast, Rebecca Leon, and Stella Russell. I hope I can Hi everybody. So, I've been pretty lucky
to know these guys since they were sitting on the carpet in kindergarten and uh see them grow. So, as you probably know, I do band and chorus at Gibbs. And I would just like to give some parting words to everybody to keep
music in your life no matter where you go. It helps you celebrate the good times and it gets you through the bad times. Whether you're playing, singing, or dancing, I hope music brings you inspiration, joy, and creativity.
So, I'm going to say um the names. And again, just hold the applause. We'll do band first. We have Jeremy Baron and you can just stand up. Yep. Liliana Baton, Ryan Chlores, Gia Gaffne,
Nayla Huing, James Hollesworth, Aiden Madame Ba, Giana Arian, Elena Parla, Ponitis, Destiny Santos, Isabella Sarisian, MichaelaKi,
James Degrowney, Ethan Kutch, Mack, Zayn Reagan, Michael Boo, Grayson Belvo, Isaiah Castro, Thomas Kruzy, Keith Fleti, Alexander Freddy, Samir Khan, Dino
Lantic, Olivia Luna, Marco Roman, Connor Zamichi, Samir Stevens, Joshua Rinsky, Kellen Wright, and Joseph Yennady. That's our band. All right, you guys appreciate and chorus.
Alexa Austo Rod, Chelsea Alsara, Daniela Alpar, Giana Arian, Liliana Baton, Livia Cho, Ryan Chlores, Maya Copilia,
Ryland Costello, James de Brownie, Annabella Garcia, Rico, Isaiah Gilbert, Allison Hutchinson, Maline Kerr, Dino Lantic, Rebecca Liam, Olivia Luna, Jack Mah,
Aly Medina, Era Miz Lodge, uh, Kenna Noazo, Koso, Noazo, Elena Parlo, Panites, Kamaya Patel, Zulamar Perez, Stella Rascalis,
Marco Roman, Elelliana San Destiny Santos, Isabella Sarkeesian, Sophia Teimo Eva, Kylie Tucker, and Shaylan Wilson. That's our chorus. So, as you know, I will be moving on
with all of you this year. Best of luck, guys. Good morning, administration, faculty, staff, parents, and most importantly, the graduating class of 2025. My name is Miss Kuzmano, and I'm the physical education teacher at BF Gibbs
Elementary School. I want to start off by saying congratulations to all of the fifth graders and I can truly say it has been an absolute joy to be your PE teacher and I'm going to miss you all. I wish we had more time together, but I'm so grateful for all the memories we've
made. I'm honored to present the 2025 physical education awards recognizing and celebrating two hardworking students who excelled in the following areas throughout the school year in PE. preparation, participation, effort,
cooperation, and attitude. These students demonstrated exceptional leadership skills by setting a good example for their classmates. They also came prepared for every single class, consistently followed class rules, and always put forth their best effort no
matter which skill or activity was being taught. Their exemplary participation was certainly a result of their optimism, hard work, and dedication to mastering these skills. While smiling earto ear, their cooperation and attentiveness to content were evident to
all. Not only were they always eager to volunteer by sharing their answers, ideas, and creativity with others, but they remained humble and active listeners to their classmates perspectives as well. In addition, these two students exhibited a high level of
physical and mental drive as well as competitiveness while maintaining a positive attitude even when faced with challenging tasks. These students consistently practice good sportsmanship by using their energy and enthusiasm to include and encourage their teammates.
Above all, I'm really proud to say that these two students continually showed respect with their opponents and most importantly demonstrated graciousness in victory or defeat. So students, when your name is called, please stand and remain standing until
both recipients names have been announced. You will receive your award when you return to school. So please hold your applause until they've both been announced. Thank you. The 2025 physical education recipients are Sophia Tima
and Milan Ignasio. I am so proud of each and every one of you and wish you the best of luck at David E. Owens Middle School. You have worked so hard for this moment. So enjoy it and make the most of every opportunity that comes your way. Never stop growing, exploring, learning, and
challenging yourself. Congratulations. Let's give a big round of applause for our virtual education. I would now like to welcome Miss Kateni and up to the podium. Thank you. Good morning. For those of you who don't know me, I'm Michelle Patian and this is
Megan Belllet. We are the safety patrol adviserss for this year and we were safer last year. Um, safety patrol is fun, but sometimes it can be a little daunting when students don't listen to
them and you know they're some of them are state patrol for students their age. So, it's a little daunting for them, but they really did a great job. So, if for those you don't know what Safe Patrol is, it's a program where our fifth grade
students promote safety in the hallway and act as role models by demonstrating safe and responsible behavior in order to fost foster leadership and responsibility within the school community. So what we are going to do is we're going to announce all students names and
we when you hear your name fifth graders please stand up and just we ask you hold applause because there's a lot of state patrol students uh until the end. Okay. Sophia Timopa, Isaiah Castro, Aiden Madama,
Kira Sukales, Alexa Agaras, Livia Cho, Mark Stucky, Chelsea Alcantara, Ay Medina, Mary Helina Beas, Jasper Phillips, James Hollesworth, Michaela Ribitzky, Kylie Tucker, Riley
Costello, Thomas Kurisy, Maline Kerr, Anthony Pericome, Shimu Kim, Brody Lennon, Jeremy Baron, Olivia Luna, James De Brownie, Joshua Rabbitzki, Samira Khan, Annabelle Garcia, Ra, Luke Belto,
Rebecca Leanne, Zayn Rean, Zulamar Perez, Shayen Wilson, Kazaluchi, Jack Mau, Leila Block, Gia Gaffne, Isabella Sarkeesian, Brian Guan, Lucas Quigley, Stella Relis,
Connor Santamichi, Dino Atlantic, Giana Ararian, uh, Kenchuku Noazo, Joey Gennady, Elelliana Sanjay, Kamaya Patel, Helena Parla, Marco Roman, Allison Hutchinson,
Roel Amed, Liliana Beton, Emily Mcoldri, uh, Michael Bandini, and Omar Jenny. These are our 2024 2025 stage patrols to the world. Uh, unfortunately, Mrs. Smith was unable to attend today. So, we would now like
to introduce your student council for the 2025 school year. So, we'll do the same thing. We'll announce them and when we announce you guys, please stand up. And again, please hold your applause until we're finished. There's just a couple names. Thank you. Elena Parupanites,
Marilyn Kerr, Samira Khan, Ava Lee, Medina, Allison Hutchinson, Zayn Rean, Mark Saki, Kenuku, Noazo. We are just a quick note about our student council members because I know Miss
Smith couldn't be here today. Um, but our student council is really focused around leadership and and and acting as like a servant to others, right? So they have done really tremendous work in um
providing resources to our community through the food pantry, through clothing drives. Um so I just really want to acknowledge the work that they've done this year. Great job student council. The next award that we're going to present
is the most improved student award on behalf of the Junior Women's Club of River Edge. And unfortunately, their member could not be here today. So, I am going to read a statement that they sent to me on their behalf.
So, good morning. Um the organization includes women from River Edge and Orido who are dedicated to serving our communities. And every year we we recognize a student who has been selected by the sixth grade teachers.
Nope, that should say fifth grade. Fifth grade teachers who demonstrate hard work, determination, and perseverance throughout the year. So, it is our pleasure to award the most improved
student award to Miss Ava Lee Medina. You can see me in the center of the stage. Great. Great job, Ely. Oh, yeah. Okay. The next award is the principal's award.
Okay. So, as we celebrate this momentous occasion, your graduation from elementary school, I want to take a moment to recognize one student who truly embodies the spirit of BPS
Elementary School. So, what does that mean? This student has consistently demonstrated qualities that we all strive for. A curious mind, always um chasing
knowledge, a kind heart and a positive attitude. So, the principal award goes to a student who has gone above and beyond in academics, shown exceptional leadership, and has made a positive
impact on our school community. Throughout this student's time at Gibbs, you have impressed everyone with your dedication to learning. You always participate actively in class, asking thoughtful questions and encouraging
your classmates. But your impact goes far beyond academics. You are a true friend, always ready to lend a helping hand, and you uplift the spirits of those around you. Your positive energy and attitude
brightens up every room. So, it is my esteemed pleasure to present this this year's principal award to Mr. Mark Stucky. Let's
go. Congratulations Mark. Okay, at this time we are going to move into probably the most anticipated part of the morning. It's almost afternoon. Um the presentation of the class of
2025. So at this time I am going to invite the fifth grade teachers down to the podium who will read the class uh the students off by name. Mr. Glasso and I will be on the left hand side of the
stage and students you know what to do. Good morning everybody. Mr. Albanese 5A and 5T, please stand. It has been a pleasure being your teacher this past year. I'm grateful to a good part of your educational journey
at Gibbs. When Miss Tors and I call your name, please make your way across the stage. Ronin Ballet. Destiny Santos. Ryland Castello, Kamaya Patel. Raphael Perez,
Thomas Kizy. Ethan Omandi, Tyler Beckis Isaiah Gilbert Shiwu Kim Kaden Chow, Jax Piaek, Olivia Luna. Isabella Sarkeesian,
Eva Denu. Era Merculi, Giana. Anna Arian, Liliana Bone, Santiago Cost Alexander Gray. Isaiah Castro
quickly. Michael Redu. You want Phillips. Daniel Obeam. Congratulations 5 A and 5T. You may be seated. You got so excited. I'm here.
We present 5C Miss Cortis. Good morning everybody. Would 5C please stand? Sophia Tima, Joshua Ritzky, Aiden Madava, Omar Janetti, Roel Ahmed
Gia Gathne Arlo Tomantano Elelliana Sante, Elena Parla Panites Marco Roman, Joey, Joseph, Yiannady. Luchi Baza, Emily Varies. Maya Kavalia,
Stella Lel Joseph Agalon and you and Anthony Perac. Congratulations 5. And next to present 5 L is Mrs. Lenoi and Mrs. Corkran. Good morning everybody.
5L, you may stand. Adam Rner, Leila Bloss, Ava Lee Medina, Mattaline Kerr, Milan Ignasio, Jeremy Baron, Chelsea Alcantara. Samira Pod,
Mary Helena Becker, Ben Costello, James calls for Zayn Rean, Kira Chall. Alexa Agaras, Brian Robin Ryan Chloris, Hutchinson
Mark Stucky, Keith Fleti, Heat. Heat. Okay. Next, we like to welcome up to the microphone Mr. Weinberg. 5W, please stand. Connor Senzamichi,
Grayson Belal, Jack Mau, Dino Lant, Michaela Verbinski Livia Cho, Shayen Wilson, Daniela Albar, Zular Perez Kylie Tucker,
Michael Bandini. Oh yeah, Michael. Oh yeah, Chuku. Luna Omaha Perez, James De Brownie. Brown, Annabelle Garcia, Rico, Helen Wright,
Samir Stevens. Ethan Cruchb El Congratulations. Class of 2025, please stand. It is my pleasure to
introduce the Gin class of 2025. At this time, Karen and families, our students are going to be processing out. So, please remain seated until they are out of the auditorium. Thank you so much for being here. I hope you all have a
wonderful rest of your day and a beautiful summer and good luck deoid. Aiden Heat. Heat. Yeah. Heat. Heat. Heat.
Yeah. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat up here. Heat. Heat.