The eighth grade class of Wisdom Lane Middle School marked a milestone on June 15 as they crossed the stage to become freshmen of Division Avenue High School.

Donned in vibrant blue gowns, eighth graders walked through the hallway toward the Wisdom Lane auditorium and were applauded by dozens of their sixth grade peers. Ryan Erkuvan led the Pledge of Allegiance while Julie Roman gave a beautiful rendition of the national anthem.

Principal John Avena encouraged students to continue to overcome challenges that may come their way, relating their journeys to Michael Jordan, Malala Yousafzai and Taylor Swift. "As you move up, remember this: the path ahead might not always be easy," he said, "but the right people can help support your life."

Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources Jaclyn Guidice commended the class for their dedication to success. "Every person in this school worked to create an environment where you can take risks, overcome challenges, discover your talent and grow as both students and people," she said. "That commitment is why Wisdom Lane is recognized as an AMLE School of Distinction."

Giving the eighth grade address, Kenisha Karthi and Valeria Kazakova reflected on their peers' past and present accomplishments. "Our friends are one of the many reasons we enjoy coming to school every day," Kazakova said. "We encourage and support each other. I hope these relationships continue throughout high school and the rest of our lives."

Class representatives Julia Calderon-Flores and Anshroop Saini presented the class gift, which is a new large backdrop for photos that features the Wisdom Lane logo and showcases the school's AMLE School of Distinction designation.

Students Cathy Chen, Cara Macaela Ibanez, Tahia Khan, Rihanna Liu, Divine Lorelyn and Grace Tominio led the presentation of graduates as each shook the hands of administrators and trustees before receiving their diploma. The eighth grade chorus gave a final performance of "Ad Astra" before graduates exited the auditorium surrounded by cheers from their loved ones.

Friends were ready to mark a milestone at Wisdom Lane Middle School before the eighth grade moving up ceremony on June 15. It was an exciting day as middle schoolers would soon become high schoolers.Graduates were applauded by sixth grade peers as they processed toward the auditorium.Julie Roman gave a rendition of the national anthem.Class representatives Julia Calderon-Flores and Anshroop Saini presented the class gift, which is a new Wisdom Lane backdrop.