Ogdensburg School celebrates 8th-grade graduation

OGDENSBURG — Ogdensburg eighth-graders celebrated their last year with the Ogdensburg Borough School.

Arches of green and white balloons decorated the entrance of the auditorium. The stage was set and the ceremony began with Stephanie Bonaparte, assistant principal welcoming everyone. The evening began with a class video showing each graduate with various photos from their baby pictures until their most recently with “I Hope You Dance” by Lee Ann Womack was playing in the background. Pictures of pumpkin fests, photos of students with their friends having fun, snapshots of different bands, groups and various sports teams flashed on the screen. Class trips to see the Phantom of the Opera and a trip to the Turtle Back Zoo to name a few.

The processional of the graduates followed the class video, while the band performed pomp and circumstance accompanied by Mr. Rafael DeLear,

Board member Mr. Ricardo Rojas addressed the graduates about their new journey they are going to endeavor. Rojas told the graduates they will face challenges, pushed out of their comfort zone, and when they do they will find the strength they need to make the right choices. Rojas encouraged them to “cease the opportunity to help others because it will enrich their lives.”

Rojas said this eighth-grade class he truly believes this class will be catalysts for change.

Class salutatorian Brodie McDonald hopes the teacher’s knowledge remains with his classmate well into their future. He wished all the graduates success in high school, and when presented with great opportunities, they will rise to the occasion. Following the salutation, Bonaparte presented the awards.

Class valedictorian, Aidan Murray, talked about how important it will be for him and his classmates to get involved in high school.

“Attend after school activities, join sports, focus on your studies, and most of all don’t let high school shape us, let us shape high school.”

Superintendent and Principal Tim Nicinski delivered the final address. He was asked what is the hardest part about being a superintendent. Nicinski replied: “signing the diplomas,” because he remembers every student’s name and the memories that reflect each one. He reminisced about the dances, the parties, the first day of school, the scent of leaves during autumn, and the sound of laughter in the hallways. Nicinski said he will hold these memories close to his heart. Nicinski wished the graduates good health and expressed how much he will miss them.