Taft Elementary School fifth graders honored in moving up ceremony

Fifth graders at Taft Elementary School smiled and waved on stage enthusiastically as parents and loved ones proudly watched them receive their certificates during their moving up ceremony on Tuesday afternoon.

The masters of ceremonies for the event included students Sophia Paternostro and Benjamin Raggo, who welcomed the audience along with student Easton Heintz. The ceremony began with the presentation of colors by the high school JROTC and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by opening remarks from Principal Christine Williams.

“I want you to remember as you move on to middle school, continue to learn from your mistakes and continue to make those choices and help each other through your future,” said Ms. Williams. “And to all of the parents and the families who are here, I want to thank you for sharing your children with us over the last several years. They have really learned and grown so much.”

Ms. Williams, Assistant Principal Marissa Cavellero, along with teachers Elena Copeland and Michelle DiPasquale then presented various awards including the Citizenship Award, Physical Fitness Award, All-County Awards, NYSSMA Participant Award and Josephine Giacco Music Award. Afterwards, students walked across the stage one-by-one to receive their diplomas. 

The ceremony concluded with fifth graders singing Butterfly Fly Away with words and music by Alan Silvestri and Glen Ballard. Students Sophia Paternostro, Elliette Macisaac, Kate Buchanan and Garduno Enriquez performed solos during the song. Closing remarks were made by student Owen Pickens and Ms. Cavellero. 

“Your time at Taft has been filled with growth, laughter, and learning,” said Ms. Cavellero. “You've truly embodied what it means to be safe, be respectful, be responsible and show self-control; living the Taft pledge with pride each and every day.”

Click here to view photos from the day!