A Celebrated Transition

The scoreboards inside Seal Athletic Center glowed a bright yellow “20:30” on the morning of May 29, honoring Collegiate School’s 8th Graders as the Class of 2030 convened for the Middle School Final Exercises. 

“Confident, kind, independent, athletic, supportive, and full of personality — these are just some of the words the teachers used to describe this class,” said Head of School Jeff Mancabelli in his opening remarks.

Final Exercises signals a transition from 8th Grade to 9th Grade — and from the Middle School to the Upper School. Mancabelli reminded the students that they’re not leaving for a new school but instead for a community they already know well. Because of that familiarity, some of the 8th Graders might think of this next step as predictable or comfortable.

“I want to suggest something different,” he said. “A new beginning is still a new beginning, even when it happens in a familiar place. Moving into the Upper School is an opportunity to begin again. It is a chance to try something new and to meet new people.” 

Mancabelli urged the 8th Graders to get out of their comfort zone and see the transition as an opportunity for growth. “As you enter Upper School, put yourself out there,” he said. “Introduce yourself to someone you do not know well. Try out for a new team. Join a club. Be curious. Be open. And be willing to feel a little uncomfortable.”

Head of Middle School Jeff Dunnington welcomed the families, faculty, and staff in attendance before turning to the 8th Graders. “To the group of students sitting behind me, the Class of 2030: Middle School is not easy on many fronts. Thank you for your hard work, caring nature, and always keeping us on our toes. The best is ahead.”  

He asked the students to reflect on their 5th Grade Orientation, held in August 2022, and all that they’ve achieved — in and out of the classroom — in the years since. Dunnington reminded the 8th Graders that in their four years in the Middle School, they’ve grown into explorers, innovators, and leaders. 

“You quickly embraced your newfound independence with wide-eyed excitement and curiosity,” he said. “Class of 2030, the positive legacy you leave behind in the Middle School is undeniable proof that you are ready for the new challenges ahead in the Upper School and beyond.”

Following Dunnington’s remarks, the two Middle School Council Co-Chairs, Ginny Standing and Scott Burnett, addressed their classmates. 

Ginny reflected on the personal growth and independence she and her classmates have experienced during their Middle School years, reminding her peers that even during tough times, the support of the Collegiate community stays with them. “It’s important to remember that even as we progress into high school, we will still have people to lean on when we need it,” she said. 

Scott took the podium next. “Today is a day to reflect on our past experiences and think about how we grew, but also a time to think about what’s ahead of us,” he said. “As Shakespeare wrote in Hamlet, ‘We know what we are, but know not what we may be.’ We don’t know what we may be, but we do know how to strive to become the best versions of ourselves. Collegiate has given us the guidance we need to become our best selves.” 

In closing, he implored his classmates to work hard, persevere, and stay curious. “Whatever the four years may bring, let’s strive to be our best each and every day. When your alarm goes off on the first day of school this fall, be ready and willing to make the most of every opportunity you get.” 

Dunnington then presented the Middle School awards of merit. Six students were honored in areas including leadership, scholarship, and citizenship: