Logan Auditorium overflowed with pride on Friday, June 6, as families, faculty and staff, Board of Trustee members, and friends gathered to celebrate students at the Eighth Grade Closing Exercises. The evening was set in motion by a heartfelt rendition of “For Good” arranged by Roger Emerson and performed by students Callan Maxwell Portner and Emi Simonds.

Head of Middle School Dr. Carlaina Bell gave opening remarks reflecting on the song’s powerful message. “Every student sitting to the right of me has been changed ‘for good’ by their experiences at the Middle School and by each other,” she said. Dr. Bell expressed that MKA’s superpower shined in various moments throughout the year, keeping students at the edge of their learning while cultivating genuine connection and relationships that have transformed them into the bright young individuals they are today. She encouraged the class saying, “The world needs you. We need your innovation, your ideas, your courage, and your ability to connect with people to make a positive impact on those around you.”

Eighth-grade student speakers Jordan Fass, the student body president, and Daniel Meade offered heartfelt sentiments on the journey behind and the road ahead. Jordan shared, “We’ve learned so much together—about the world, about ourselves, and about what it means to show up for each other... We may be closing the door on middle school, but we’re also opening one that leads to brand-new adventures.” Daniel encouraged his classmates to always lead with character saying, “Just remember, you can accomplish any goal, and work through any struggle, as long as you are a good person. Stay kind, loyal, socially aware, and make responsible decisions.”

Drawing inspiration from the eighth-grade fall play, James and the Giant Peach, Head of School Nigel D. Furlonge praised the class’s curiosity and courage. Before the ceremony closed out with a rendition of the school song “Oh, MKA!,” Mr. Furlonge encouraged students saying, “In high school, you will wonder and wander, inquire and innovate, learn and grow in ways you can’t quite imagine right now…Remember, from this middle school experience, you carry habits of heart, mind, and spirit that will serve you well. And trust that the teachers, mentors, coaches, and directors at the Upper School will help you navigate it all.”

Congratulations to the eighth-grade class! To view more photos from the ceremony visit www.mka.org/photogalleries.