Barr Students Move on up to High School

Parents and friends spilled out of the high school auditorium as their eighth graders walked across the stage during the Barr Middle School's moving up ceremony on Monday. These students were taking the next big step and going on to high school.

"It's great. Some schools don't do this kind of thing (moving up ceremonies). It feels good," said Father Justin Estevez, referring to his son Jose. "I already have a kid in high school. My niece and wife are in there."

Estevez peered into the crowded auditorium. Those that didn't come early enough had to claim the precious little standing room that was available.

"We're looking forward to high school," said Mother Kathy Lopez. Her daughter is the oldest of Lopez's children. "She's excited and glad to be done with middle school."

The ceremony opened up with the pledge of allegiance from Austin Penate and Saumya George, Student Council representatives. After Principal Roger Guccione's opening remarks, the orchestra, chorus and concert band performed Don't Stop Believing by Journey and On Parade by Jerry Nowak.

"It's exciting," said Mother Shana Velez. "I think she's ready to go."

"It feels great. She was on high honor roll and band," said Father Ken Marulli. "She's very excited (about high school)."

Principal Guccione, Assistant Principal Ruben Addarich and PTA President Monica Nicolucci presented the moving up certificates. Nicolucci and the Moving Up Committee organized a big portion of the ceremony and a special thanks goes out to Pam Bartell and Marianne Flanagan.

"It's sad because she's my baby. She's the youngest of five," said Mother Cathy Fagan. "She's excited and nervous both, but she'll do good in (high school)."

Awards were given out for the following categories:

• Academic excellence
• Team effort
• Team contribution
• Art
• Music
• Physical education
• Service leraning
• Student Council/leadership
• Technology
• Theatre/drama
• President's award for educational excellence
• President's award for educational improvement
• Honor roll
• American Legion medals
• Daughters of the American Revolution medal
• Son's of the American Revolution medal

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