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News & Photos
Eighth Grade is Ready for the Future
"Every moment this year that has been a last time in Middle School for you, has been a first time at McDonogh for me. I've learned from you what McDonogh spirit is and what Eagle pride is all about. You've taught me that joy really does live here."
Head of Middle School Brendan Minihan offered those words to the 121 members of the Class of 2030 at the Eighth Grade Closing Ceremony, held on a bright Monday morning, June 1, at Childs Memorial Terrace. It was his first Eighth Grade Closing at McDonogh — and by his own account, the class had taught him everything he needed to know.
Minihan reassured the class that it's OK not to know exactly what lies ahead in Upper School. "Remember that you've not only learned and grown next to one another this year, but you've also learned and grown from one another. You are on this journey together, so lean into one another. Always keep setting high goals for yourself."
Then, student speaker Jackson Billig reflected on how far the class has come. "The strength of our community and our trust in each other has only grown stronger," he said, sharing examples of activities, fundraisers, and advisory lunches. "Over the years we have known each other, we have written a story of reliability and acceptance of one another."
He was followed by classmate Karionie Coley, who turned her remarks toward the future. "No one in the Class of 2030 knows exactly how their high school experience will be," she said. "In the next four years, we will grow and evolve as people. We will try new activities, make new friends, become more confident, and even grow a couple of inches. The one thing that will stay constant is our McDonogh Family."
Following the remarks, Head of School Dave Farace '87 joined Minihan for the presentation of eighth grade awards and certificates of completion. The ceremony concluded with the benediction by Director of Spiritual and Ceremonial Services Kevin Costa and the singing of the Dedication Hymn, under the direction of Middle School Music Director Suzi Eldridge.
Congratulations to the freshman Class of 2030!
Watch the Eighth Grade Closing here.
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"Every moment this year that has been a last time in Middle School for you, has been a first time at McDonogh for me. I've learned from you what McDonogh spirit is and what Eagle pride is all about. You've taught me that joy really does live here."
Head of Middle School Brendan Minihan offered those words to the 121 members of the Class of 2030 at the Eighth Grade Closing Ceremony, held on a bright Monday morning, June 1, at Childs Memorial Terrace. It was his first Eighth Grade Closing at McDonogh — and by his own account, the class had taught him everything he needed to know.
Minihan reassured the class that it's OK not to know exactly what lies ahead in Upper School. "Remember that you've not only learned and grown next to one another this year, but you've also learned and grown from one another. You are on this journey together, so lean into one another. Always keep setting high goals for yourself."
Then, student speaker Jackson Billig reflected on how far the class has come. "The strength of our community and our trust in each other has only grown stronger," he said, sharing examples of activities, fundraisers, and advisory lunches. "Over the years we have known each other, we have written a story of reliability and acceptance of one another."
He was followed by classmate Karionie Coley, who turned her remarks toward the future. "No one in the Class of 2030 knows exactly how their high school experience will be," she said. "In the next four years, we will grow and evolve as people. We will try new activities, make new friends, become more confident, and even grow a couple of inches. The one thing that will stay constant is our McDonogh Family."
Following the remarks, Head of School Dave Farace '87 joined Minihan for the presentation of eighth grade awards and certificates of completion. The ceremony concluded with the benediction by Director of Spiritual and Ceremonial Services Kevin Costa and the singing of the Dedication Hymn, under the direction of Middle School Music Director Suzi Eldridge.
Congratulations to the freshman Class of 2030!
Watch the Eighth Grade Closing here.