Welcoming everyone to the 2017 Moving-Up ceremony, Principal Dr. Lisa Ihne acknowledged parents, family, friends, and administrators present making particular mention to “thank Dr. Schartner for his thirty-nine years of service in the Sayville School District and congratulate him on his retirement and extraordinary career. He will certainly be missed. Congratulations to Dr. Stimmel who will be the next Superintendent of Sayville Public Schools.”
Dr. Ihne continued by praising the students. “Since our Fifth- graders have been in Second grade, I have enjoyed getting to know them and their families. These students, in particular, have proven to be respectful, kind, and hard working. As much as I would like to keep them longer, it is time to move on to a new building, where exciting and challenging times lie ahead.” Dr. Ihne turned to address the Moving-Up class. “Students, I am confident that you will take memories of Cherry Avenue with you and I am happy that the education you received to date has been the foundation for your learning. It is my hope that you will set goals, follow your dreams, remain positive, and persevere through the challenges ahead.”
Thanking all the parents for their trust and for being part of their children’s education, Dr. Ihne recognized those parents who were moving up as well. After, she introduced Middle School Principal Mr. Thomas Murray, who assured the incoming Sixth-graders they will enjoy the Middle School experience. This was followed by the presentation of the special awards (see below), Moving-Up Certificates, and the Annual Fifth-grade Class Gift, a “Peace Pole,” that will be installed in The McLary Garden that was newly named in honor of Cherry’s retiring green thumb and speech teacher, Patty McLary.
Before the ceremony closed, the entertainment included a charming slideshow prepared by the parents, followed by several musical numbers from Moana, beautifully paraphrased and directed by Kristi Woerner, Cherry Avenue’s Music teacher.
SPECIAL AWARDS: CA New York State Comptroller • Courtney Corcoran, Caitlyn Schutte, Avery Lazarus; CA County Legislature Presiding Officer • Jack D’Andrea; CA Triple “C” • Josiah George, Kate Leigh-Manuell; CA Executive Public Service Award • Abigail Cabrera; Kemper Awards • Tyler Sebor, Lily Coan; Cameron Riccomini Scholarship Award •Delaney Lutz; Cherry Good Choice Award • Kylie Person; Suffolk Zone Award • Eilise Marino, Luke Hansen.