On June 18, the Byron-Bergen eighth-grade class and their families took part in the traditional “Bees Crossing” ceremony. This ceremony signifies the moving up of students to the Jr./Sr. High School. Byron-Bergen Central School District Superintendent Casey Kosiorek and Jr./Sr. High School Principal Aaron Johnson spoke to the class during the ceremony. Their speeches focused on the importance of hard work, a growth mindset, having fun, getting involved in extracurricular activities during high school, and remembering some of the basic yet important lessons taught to them as kindergartners. Following a touching slide show of student pictures gathered from their nine years of school, a heartfelt tribute to classmate Victoria “Tori” Claus was read by eighth-grader Morgan Fuller. Tori, and her brother Chris, passed away six years ago.
The ceremony provided the opportunity for four annual awards to be presented to individual students who have displayed exemplary characteristics over the course of the school year. The Jenny Kuzma Memorial award was presented to Garret Sando for his spirit of enthusiasm and zest for life, love of learning, and sense of humor and optimism in adverse situations. The STEP Boosters Award was presented to Brian Ireland for demonstrating leadership, character, citizenship, and concern for others. Margaret Graney received the Linda Covatta Award for being a good school citizen and role model who worked to make the school a better place for others to learn. It also recognizes her kindness, integrity, caring, and respect for others. Lastly, the Robert Fowler Award was presented to Ben Chaback for his service to others and his upbeat approach to life, spirit of cooperation, and ability to always put forth his best effort.
After the ceremony, punch and cookies were enjoyed by all in attendance, followed by an eighth-grade dance.
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