Collegiate Class of 2029 Moves Up

The student procession, led by student flag bearers carrying the American flag and the state flag of Virginia, walked into the ceremony held on the Lower School field to George Frideric Handel’s Water Music. Once seated, Head of Lower School Debbie Miller welcomed parents and faculty to the celebration with heartwarming gratitude and praised the 4th Graders for performing their processional with grace and poise. “I am so excited to be here on this beautiful day,” she said. 

 

Mrs. Miller thanked the 4th Graders for their leadership of the Lower School community during an exceptional year. She remarked how the students have gathered formidable tools in the Lower School that will support them going forward, and that, even though the students have completed their Lower School education, their learning journey continues. 

 

“You have grown as students, as leaders, and as caring, responsible citizens,” she said. “Keep learning, keep growing, and keep that wonderful Collegiate spirit.”

 

Six students, one chosen from each class, followed Mrs. Miller’s comments with reflections of their own, detailing the fond memories they’ve made during their time in the Lower School. 

 

“In the six years I’ve been here at Collegiate,” one reflection speaker said, “I’ve realized Collegiate is my home away from home. My teachers, students, and other parents keep us safe just like my parents do at home.” 

Penny Evins, Head of School, was next to speak. Mrs. Evins commended the students for their commitment to the School’s values of honor, love of learning, excellence, respect, and community. This love of learning, Mrs. Evins said, involves the practice of viewing mistakes as opportunities for growth. “Our learning journey at Collegiate — and in life — is not about getting the right answer,” she said. “Instead, it’s about trying your best; it’s about being curious; it’s about learning from your mistakes. We have all learned this year — together, Cougars of all ages.” 

 

The students’ commitment to the School’s values, Mrs. Evins said, is something that she knows will remain with the students during their time in the Middle and Upper School. 

“Collegiate is so very proud of you,” she told them. “You, as individuals and a collective group of students, are shining examples of our values, including a love of learning that guides our shared efforts. As you move across the bridge to the Middle School, our values remain. Your love of learning serves you and our community well, for you are certainly growing into experts in the field of lifelong learners.” 

Congratulations to our rising 5th Grade Cougars, the lifelong learners that make up the Collegiate Class of 2029!

View the ceremony recording - click here