GLEN SPEY, NY — At the conclusion of a school year, which was anything but normal, the Eldred Faculty Association succeeded in adhering to some time-honored traditions at the George Ross Mackenzie Elementary School. Such traditions included recognizing student accomplishments in the areas of academic achievement, attendance and matriculation. 

Blessed with cooperative weather for all of the activities, there were three drive-by events over the course of eight days. The first was to honor those students in grades three through six who achieved honor roll or principal’s list status. This event is usually held in the evening with an ice cream social to follow. 

Normally measured over the normal four marking periods in an academic year, this year, the results of the first three periods were recognized. Honor roll status is achieved by students who attain an average of 80 percent or better with special area subject grades of “C” or better. Students on the Principal’s List attain an average of 90 percent or better with special area subject grades of “B” or better. 

Also acknowledged at this event were the five students honored for their perfect attendance during the first three marking periods, with no late arrivals or early departures. These were Sonny Ackerley (Kindergarten), Michael Canfield III (first grade), Ariana Fredericks (fifth grade), and Marissa Gochenour and Tabitha Smith (sixth grade). 

The certificates for perfect attendance and honor roll and plaques for Principal’s List were distributed by the student’s teacher to the student who, accompanied by proud family members, remained in the vehicle. 

Each awardee was greeted by cheers from all of the faculty on hand and ran the gauntlet of festive balloons in school colors and placards of support and appreciation. Many of the vehicles transporting the students had more than one honors recipient aboard. 

The next drive-by opportunity was the sixth grade moving up ceremony, which preceded an End of the Year Goodbye all-school motorcade to which all students and their families were invited. 

For a full list of Principal’s List and Honor Roll students, visit www.riverreporter.com.