Moving-Up Ceremonies at Montgomery C. Smith Elementary School
and Hudson Junior High School Honor Students’ Milestones
June 25, 2024
It was a memorable Monday of milestones for the Hudson City School District on June 24, 2024! During separate Moving-Up Ceremonies, Montgomery C. Smith Elementary School fifth graders were celebrated for advancing to sixth grade at Hudson Junior High School starting in September, and Hudson Junior High School’s eighth graders were propelled into Hudson Senior High School, with ninth grade freshman classes kicking off this fall.
Montgomery C. Smith Elementary School
Watch the ceremony here; start at the 31st minute: https://www.youtube.com/live/RR4b57gBefg
For dad Marcel Edmond, “To see my baby girl walk across there, this was one of the greatest moments of my life,” he said.
For mom Danielle Mabry, there was unabashed pride. “She’s resilient; that’s what you need,” she said.
Both were absolutely thrilled to see their daughter, Angela Edmond, accept congratulations for completing fifth grade at Montgomery C. Smith Elementary School. The 10-year-old’s massive smile gave away how she felt about the moment.
Angela was one of 117 students in eight classes honored during the Moving-Up Ceremony the morning of Monday, June 24, 2024 on Hudson Senior High School’s athletics stadium field. Puffy clouds littered the sky as the sunny morning’s warmth provided an ideal setting for graduates, the elementary school’s faculty and staff. Families and friends filled the grandstand, many clutching congratulatory balloons or bouquets, and enthusiastically cheering and applauding throughout the ceremony.
Superintendent Dr. Juliette Pennyman congratulated the fifth graders and Smith’s faculty and staff for a successful school year.
“I want to offer some advice for the exciting journey ahead,” she told students. “Believe in yourself. You have the potential to achieve great things, and with hard work and determination, you can accomplish anything you set your mind to. Next, remember it’s OK to ask for help when needed. Transitioning to junior high school may bring new challenges, and seeking support from teachers, parents and peers is a sign of strength, not weakness. Additionally, get involved in extracurricular activities… participating in activities outside the classroom can help you discover new passions and make lasting friendships. Be kind and inclusive to others. Junior high is a time of growth and change; showing empathy and respect toward your classmates will create a community and build lasting lifetime relationships. Lastly, stay organized and manage your time effectively… I believe in all of you and am excited to see what you will achieve in junior high!”
Principal Mark Brenneman also offered deep congratulations, noting that the fifth graders had thrived despite, in previous years, coping with pandemic-required remote learning and then maintaining safe distance to ensure safety after school reopened. He especially noted the students’ hard work and offered a special thank you to parents and families who supported the youngsters.
The students’ next academic stop: Hudson Junior High School, and Principal Rhode Cooper was on hand to welcome them. “Success is a journey, not a destination,” she said, prepping them for the lessons ahead. After an array of awards was presented and the Fifth Grade Choir performed “Remember Me,” from the movie “Coco,” each student was called to the podium to be presented with a certificate, receive hearty handshakes and have commemorative photos taken by parents and friends.
The ceremony concluded with families reuniting with their graduating fifth graders. Hugs, smiles and high-fives were everywhere as all savored the moment, the arrival of summer break and a milestone – the completion of elementary school – to be treasured by all.
Hudson Junior High School
Watch the ceremony here: https://www.youtube.com/live/zsq5c29Yu74?si=wO47Qb1PNVA_9uR0
Amid the crowd of students and families snapping commemorative photos, Nevaeh Wilson had a clear focus and the big picture in mind.
“I’m excited for my future and my career,” the 13-year-old said, grinning as she excitedly talked about her goal of becoming an anesthesiologist.
Her mom, Katlynn Dejesus, looked on, brimming with pride. “This is emotional because she’s my first born,” she said. “I’m really excited for what’s ahead!”
Hudson Junior High School’s Moving-Up Ceremony for eighth graders was a transformative, thrilling look into the future for 100 students who worked hard to excel. Hundreds of loving family members and friends filled the auditorium to cheer them on.
Principal Rhode Cooper expressed pride in how students had grown up, matured and learned, noting that those advancements set a strong foundation for success. “We’re proud of you and have high hopes for you. We will miss you and the life you brought to the school,” she said. “Now you’re ready for the next big step in your life — high school. Make no mistake, it is a big step, and you’ll find it both challenging and rewarding.”
Superintendent Dr. Juliette Pennyman suggested that the new ninth graders embrace the boundless possibilities that will unfold.
“Approach high school with an open mind and a positive outlook,” she said. “High school is a time for self-discovery, so take advantage of every opportunity to pursue your passions. You can achieve great things with hard work and determination. Take advantage of all available resources, such as your teachers, counselors and extracurricular activities.
“Remember to treat each other with kindness and support one another,” Pennyman added. “Staying true to yourself and encouraging each other are essential. I have faith in all of you and I’m excited to witness the remarkable things you’ll accomplish in high school and beyond. Congratulations once again and good luck on the exciting journey ahead!”
Hudson Senior High School Principal Derek Reardon provided a rousing welcome. “I would like to introduce Hudson Senior High School’s newest ninth grade, the Class of 2028,” he declared to the cheering audience. “Envision greatness in yourself and take advantage of every opportunity. Believe you can achieve it!”
During the ceremony, numerous awards were bestowed on students and the 8th Grade Choir sang “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus. In addition, a special presentation and thunderous applause honored social studies teacher Lisa Dwyer, retiring after 30 years. “You have dedicated your life to working with our students and we appreciate it,” Cooper said. “We hope you enjoy your retirement and wish you much success in the next chapter of your life. You certainly deserve it!”
