Deer Park School District

Elementary Schools Celebrate Big Steps at Moving Up Ceremonies

Deer Park’s three elementary schools celebrated moving up milestones in June, as fifth graders at JFK prepared for middle school and second graders at JQA and May Moore got ready to step up to third grade at JFK.

Second graders at the primary schools proudly sang “JQA Forever” at JQA’s June 2 ceremony, and “Best Day of My Life” and “Shine” at May Moore’s event on June 4; both held outdoors; while at JFK’s June 23 ceremony in the school gym, the fifth-grade chorus kicked things off with a stirring rendition of the National Anthem. At all three schools, awards and certificates were presented in front of the students’ proud families.

May Moore Principal Tammy Alcalde and JQA Principal Christopher Molinelli bid a fond farewell to their charges as they took one big step forward in their educational journeys.

“A heartfelt thank you to our students,” Alcalde said. “You've done such an amazing job this year, and you are more than ready for third grade. Continue to make us proud, boys and girls.”

“Thank you for sharing your children with us,” Molinelli told their parents. “It’s been a privilege to work by your side to mold these incredible minds and caring hearts.”

JFK Principal Kelly Benson congratulated her fifth graders as they walked off, while welcoming the graduating second graders who would be joining her at JFK come September.

“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome you to the John F. Kennedy family,” Benson told the youngsters. “You each bring something special – your ideas, your energy and your curiosity – and we can’t wait to see all the amazing things you do here. Moving to a new school can feel like a big adventure, and it’s okay to feel a little nervous, but just remember, here at JFK, our Falcons don’t just fly, but we soar. As you get ready for third grade, come with an open mind and a brave heart. You're going to learn new things, make new friends and have so many exciting experiences. We’ll be ready to welcome you with open arms in September. Until then, congratulations on everything you have accomplished in second grade.”