St. Luke's School Eighth Grade Promotion Ceremony

On June 6, families, friends, faculty, and staff gathered in the Seldin Performing Arts Center to celebrate the academic achievements of the Class of 2028 during the annual Eighth Grade Promotion Ceremony. Head of School Mary Halpin Carter opened the ceremony with a warm welcome, extending her heartfelt congratulations to the graduating class of eighth graders. She emphasized the significance of this milestone in their lives, especially as St. Luke's School approaches its upcoming centennial. “Today, we celebrate all you have accomplished and everything yet to come. You are the Class of 2028! That means when you graduate, St. Luke’s will be 100 years old,” she shared. 

After reflecting on how much the school has changed in a century, Dr. Carter set the stage for the exciting high school journey that awaits the students. “If you work hard in Upper School as your Big Selves — striving to be positive, authentic, fearless, and not bound by perfectionism — you will graduate as exceptional writers and critical thinkers. You will inspire others with your ability to discuss any topic with intelligence, thoughtfulness, and respect. You’ll have outstanding skills in math, science, engineering, technology, and world languages. You will excel as athletes, musicians, artists, and activists. And, as demonstrated during your Declamations earlier this week, you will become masterful public speakers.”

In the absence of Head of Middle School Katie Boorse, who welcomed her first child in May, Dr. Carter also presented the annual Middle School Awards. Congratulations to the following Middle School Awards recipients: 

 

The ceremony also provided an opportunity for beloved teachers Jeanette Thompson and Jen Pokorney to address the graduates. Selected by the Class of 2028, they reminisced about cherished memories and offered encouragement for the future. Pokorney shared these four takeaways, “First, show gratitude. Say thank you often and with intention to all people you encounter and care about…Second, help others. Caring for others and offering help not only demonstrates your character but it helps us build the community we all want to be a part of…Third, spend time connecting with others… Finally, take risks…... push outside of your comfort zone, and play!”

Next, Middle School Student Body President Lina Elwood addressed the class. She shared gratitude for the parents of each eighth grader and St. Luke’s talented faculty. “All of these special moments couldn’t have happened without the endless support of our teachers,” she said. “We owe them all our thanks for their unwavering dedication and guidance. Whether in the classroom, advisory, or on the sports fields, your knowledge, passion, and kindness will not be forgotten as we move into the Upper School. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts (and minds!).” 

Mr. Chuhta, Assistant Head of Middle School, and Ms. Dowling, Eighth Grade Level Dean, then presented certificates to the 67 members of the Class of 2028. As the ceremony concluded, the room filled with applause and beaming smiles. The Eighth Grade Promotion Ceremony marked the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. Now ready to embark on their next journey, the students left the ceremony excited about the endless possibilities that await them in Upper School. 

Congratulations to the Class of 2028!