Collegiate School’s Class of 2030 Moves Up

Led by student flag bearers carrying the American flag and the state flag of Virginia, the 4th Grade procession walked into the Moving Up Ceremony, held on the Lower School courtyard. Once seated, Head of Lower School Debbie Miller gave a warm welcome to parents and faculty. “We are so excited to have you all with us on this beautiful morning as we celebrate our amazing 4th Graders, the Class of 2030,” she said. 

Throughout their time in the Lower School, the 4th Graders have served as graceful leaders to the rest of their Lower School peers. Mrs. Miller expressed her gratitude for the excellence the Class of 2030 has embodied as students and citizens of the community. 

“These students have worked hard throughout their years in Lower School to become the leaders you see in front of you today,” she said. 

Six students, one chosen from each class, followed Mrs. Miller’s comments with remarks of their own, highlighting special moments they experienced during their time in the Lower School. Memories included a field trip to Carter Mountain, climbing Cougar Mountain for the first time, becoming Cougar pals with a 4th Grader, playing a leading role in a learning activity on the Revolutionary War and learning to read and appreciate a favorite book. 

Following these remarks, students performed moving renditions of the songs “Larger Than Life” and “A Million Dreams,” which they practiced and rehearsed before the ceremony. 

Head of School Penny Evins took the podium next. The students, she said, have shown extraordinary commitment to the School’s values of honor, love of learning, excellence, respect, and community. 

Mrs. Evins noted that the students have gathered formidable tools in the Lower School — tools of distinction that will support them going forward. She made the important point that, as they cross the bridge to their next journey, their learning continues.  

“You have what it takes for continued success and we are so excited to watch and support your next steps,” she said.  "Your teachers and all of the Collegiate faculty and staff are grateful for your many acts of being Responsible Citizens and for the ways you collectively hold each other to put your best Cougar paw forward.”

Congratulations to our rising 5th Grade Cougars, all of whom are sure to continue making an impact on Collegiate in the Middle School.