Fifth grade moving-up ceremonies were held at Wantagh High School from June 20 to 22, during which more than 200 students were recognized for their successful completion of elementary school. 

Mandalay Elementary School graduates recited a poem, “You Are Loved.” Several awards were presented, including the Officer Mike Levesque Award, which is named for a former Mandalay security guard who was known for making the students laugh and smile, and giving high-fives. The award is presented to a student who exudes kindness in the community, and this year’s recipient was Christopher Lerro. 

Principal Marie Pisicchio said this year’s fifth graders will be remembered as a class that overcame obstacles and embraced challenges, and she reminded them to move forward with a mindset that success is the result of hard work and determination.

“Difficult times in life are like washing machines,” she said. “They twist us, spin us and knock us around, but in the end, we come out cleaner, brighter and better than before.”

Forest Lake Elementary School fifth graders sang “When I Grow Up,” with Emma Jaramillo and Patrick O’Brien serving as soloists. There was also a musical performance of “Shine Your Way” and well wishes from Principal Jessica Zimmer. The fifth grade teachers presented moving-up certificates to the future middle schoolers. 

Dr. Randee Bonagura, principal of Wantagh Elementary School, said the students have grown tremendously over the past six years, both individually and as a class. They have learned what it means to be good citizens of their school and their community, and are moving on to the next chapter as responsible and respectful people. Her words of wisdom – work hard, be humble, get involved, show kindness and always remember to smile.