A Bold Move

With welcome beams of sunlight streaming through the Lower School courtyard on a breezy spring morning, Collegiate School’s 4th Grade Moving Up ceremony on May 29 was a celebration of the Class of 2034.

Khristi Bates, in her first year as the Head of the Lower School, gave a warm welcome to parents and family members and recognized the significance of this day for the students. “Throughout their years in the Lower School, they have grown not only academically, but also as leaders, classmates, and caring members of our community,” she said. “They have demonstrated curiosity, perseverance, kindness, and responsible citizenship, and we are incredibly proud of all they have accomplished.”

 

The students’ achievements would not have been possible without the support of their families, caregivers, and teachers. “Your partnership, encouragement, and unwavering support have helped guide these students every step of the way,” Bates said, acknowledging the multigenerational audience. “We are grateful to celebrate this special occasion with you on this beautiful day. Thank you again for being here.”

Fourth Grader Elisabeth Gottwald introduced Head of School Jeff Mancabelli, who has been a constant presence on the Lower School campus since arriving at Collegiate two years ago. “Mr. Mancabelli wants us to know that growth only happens when you challenge yourself to try new things,” Elisabeth said. “That’s good advice for us as we think about going to Middle School.”

Mancabelli immerses himself in student life at Collegiate and has participated in numerous Lower School projects and field trips. He reflected on the day when he visited the then-3rd Graders in each of their classrooms and read aloud The Legend of Rock Paper Scissors. He likened the students to the characters in the book. 

“At times, you were like Rock — dependable friends… who helped build community together,” he said. “At times, you were like Paper, reminding us that great ideas often begin with a blank page, full of imagination. At times, you were like Scissors — sharp thinkers who knew how to ask great questions.”

He continued, “And just like in the story, you did not grow by staying in one place. You grew by searching for new challenges every year. You grew by learning from classmates who were different from you and by teachers who expected more from you. That is the lesson I hope you carry with you.”

Mancabelli concluded his remarks by reminding students that as daunting as it may feel to be moving up to the Middle School, no one is expected to “know everything” on the first day. “You don’t have to be perfect,” he said. “You don’t have to have it all figured out all at once. You just need to take it one step at a time.”

   

Six students, each representing a 4th Grade class, provided sentiments of their own from their time in the Lower School. Their vivid memories included making friends while playing football at recess, gaining confidence through stage performances, and feeling protected during a scary tornado warning. The students expressed gratitude for the Lower School’s ever-present, reassuring adults. “I know our teachers will always be there for us as we cross the bridge,” one of the students said. 

Moving Up reflects the growth, friendships, perseverance, and leadership that have defined the students’ years in Lower School, Bates said. Concluding the ceremony, she turned to the 4th Graders behind her: “Class of 2034, watching you reach this milestone reminds us not only of how much you have learned, but also of the kind, curious, and confident young people you are becoming. We wish you well!” The audience cheered in agreement.

Congratulations to our rising 5th Grade Cougars, the Collegiate Class of 2034!