Summer is almost here! The staff here at Edison Intermediate School has been working hard to send the eighth graders off. They have lined up an exciting week of events for the last week of school, and these events are exclusive to the eighth graders.
Some of the eighth grade students aren’t aware of the events. Eighth grader Miceala Borthwick said about the upcoming events, “I don’t really know a lot about what is happening. I am excited though.”
The first event that already happened was the eighth grade dance on Friday, June 12. This event was open to all eighth graders, as well as eighth grade teachers who volunteered as chaperones. There was a DJ that spun music who gave out Starbucks gift cards to dancers. There were also games to play inside the gym. Eighth grade Science teacher and chaperone Mrs. Jessica Herrera said, “I really liked the boardwalk style games that were available for people who didn’t want to dance. They were fun.”
There was also Chick-Fil-A catering, Philadelphia pretzels, and a candy bar for everyone to enjoy. All of the students look forward to this event all year. As Ella Mirsky said, “I was really excited to have a fun time with my friends at the dance.”
This is a formal-dressed event where students and staff typically wear a dress or a blazer. Special Education teacher Ms. Stephanie Grajales explained, “It was nice to see them out of their element. It’s the one time of year where they were wearing suits, ties, and beautiful dresses.”
Next on the schedule, we have Fine Arts Day, or FAD, and the eighth grade awards ceremony both on June 22. FAD is a talent show during school where teachers and students here at EIS get the opportunity to showcase their hidden talents. Spectators from each grade level can expect dances, singing, and playing instruments. Eighth grader Casey Smith shared, “I am so excited to see who will perform.”
Jocelyne Fernandez, another eighth grader said, “I am so excited; I love FAD.”
That same day, the eighth grade awards ceremony will take place in the evening. Each subject teacher chooses up to two students to receive an award for excellence. Additionally, each student in a club will be recognized. The parents of students chosen to be recognized or who are receiving an award were emailed an invitation to the ceremony.
The next day, on June 23, eighth graders will have a busy day. During the first two periods, there will be a graduation rehearsal. Right after this, anyone who bought a yearbook will receive it. This is a fun moment for the eighth grad
ers, and is the perfect moment to look through memories. Lila Spadaro said, “I can look through it and see how we changed over the years, which is cool.”
Later in the day, the eighth graders will receive a special surprise, followed by karaoke.
Another event coming up on the eighth graders’ schedule is the graduation ceremony on June 24th, the second-to-last day of school. This event officially closes out the school year, and many call this a full-circle moment. Chloe Blom, an eighth-grade student, said, “I am super excited for graduation.”
On the last day of school, June 25th, students will have an ice cream social, as well as a yearbook signing. This allows teachers to write their final goodbye letters to their fellow students. An eighth grade student, Theodore Robbins, shared, “I’m excited to eat ice cream and spend time with my friends.”
Not only will these celebrations be fun and exciting for students, but they have also been scientifically proven to help the development and functioning of kids. For example, a study done by the Optimum Health Institute, or OHI, showcases these results: “According to behavioral psychology, acknowledging and celebrating achievements, no matter how small, strengthens the connection between positive behavior and reward” (OHI). This data proves that these celebrations will strengthen the work ethic and the drive of students. In this stage of a student’s life, it is very important to be motivated. One could assume that motivated work during this chapter of a person’s life would really benefit them in the long run. In addition, the study found other connections. “By celebrating and engaging in joyful activities, we can help mitigate the negative effects of stress, boost the immune system, and promote better overall health” (OHI). This correlation highlights the positive effects as a direct result of celebration. Overall, celebrations have clear psychological benefits.
Moreover, another study done by Maryville University shows another side of the benefits. “… celebrating small goals can help encourage you to achieve larger ones” (Maryville University). This demonstrates how appreciating your hard work now will motivate you to attempt harder things in the future. For some students, high school will be very difficult, and it will be important to acknowledge how well they did in middle school. Similarly, the study found another positive result. “Celebrations can also help people transition into new phases of life” (Maryville University). The transition from middle school to high school is very important and difficult for many students. One could assume that any help or support during this time will be helpful. Overall, these celebrations will help students move into high school.
