LIBERTY, NY – On Thursday, June 5, 19 sixth-grade elementary students at Sullivan BOCES took an important step into their educational future during a “stepping up” ceremony at the Rubin Pollack Education Center. Their journeys in learning will soon continue as seventh graders in the coming school year.

Click here for more pictures from the event. 

Following the traditional processional, Barbara Henderson, assistant principal of the elementary school, lead the assemblage in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

In her opening remarks, executive principal Megan Becker described the sixth-grade stepping up ceremony as “a special moment where we all come together to celebrate the incredible accomplishments of our amazing students... today is about recognizing their hard work and celebrating the journey that has brought them to this important milestone.”

“It has been a joy to watch you grow into the thoughtful, capable young people you are today,” she told the rows of students. “You are ready to take the next step into middle school… You have learned so much, made lasting friendships, and discovered the unique talents that make each of you special… Congratulations on reaching this wonderful milestone.”

And to the group of parents and guardians, Becker said, “We are here to honor our fantastic students who have shown resilience, curiosity and dedication throughout their time with us… Your love, patience and constant support have played an essential role in your child’s success… Walking beside them, cheering them on and believing in them every step of the way.”

Following the opening remarks, the students gathered together to perform “A Million Dreams,” as district superintendent Dr. Robert DuFour listened intently in the background, the elementary school principals handed out the hard-won diplomas, folks were treated to a student slideshow of life at school, closing remarks by the assistant principal, and the “milestone” event ended with a traditional recessional.

Alanna Reyes, a 12-year-old from Roscoe in Cheryl Johnstone’s class, shared a few words about attending elementary school at the local BOCES.

“This is going to be my seventh year in September. It’s pretty good to go to class at BOCES; they teach you things, and you can make things,” she said, looking ahead to the upcoming school year. “If you’re a math fan like me, I love algebra.”

Reyes explained that goals for the future include “making new friends and learning new things. After high school, she hopes to become a teacher of mathematics.