Sixth Graders Take Final Bow in Lower School Journey

In keeping with the Hamden Hall tradition, the 36 students performed the school song before gathering together on the stage to perform Come With Me: A Wonka Medley from their spring musical production of Willy Wonka Kids. The students adapted new lyrics highlighting memories from the year to make the performance even more special.

Lower School Director Lorri Carroll took the podium to address the rising seventh graders, noting how they have reached an important milestone in their academic journey. She spoke of the success they found working together and said that kindness had helped them achieve that end result.

“It has been a sincere privilege and honor to watch each of you learn and grow,” said Mrs. Carroll. “You’ve discovered so much, not just about school, but about each other, and about yourselves.  But what made this year truly special is that you grew. You began to look around, to listen, to make space. You discovered that kindness is powerful, that the best teams are built on inclusion, and that sometimes the most meaningful friendships come from the most unexpected places. Slowly, thoughtfully, and with heart, you became a class that didn’t just sit together—you stood together.”

Mrs. Carroll remarked how the students joyfully embraced becoming role models to their PreSchool/PreKindergarten buddies, welcomed new students and supported one another, established the first-ever Lower School No Place for Hate Committee, and excitedly welcomed new challenges and remained resilient to achieve their goals. She left the students with a few words of advice to take on their journey ahead.

“Keep letting your creativity shine, your energy lift others up, and your fun bring people together. We are so proud of you, and we can’t wait to see all the amazing things you’ll do in Middle School,” she said.

Now it was time for the celebratory moment – the presentation of the diplomas. All the students stood and smiled as they walked across the stage to receive their diplomas from Head of School Bob Izzo. As the final student returned to their seat, Mr. Izzo offered congratulatory remarks.

“Rising seventh graders, congratulations and we could not be more proud of you,” he said. “You have done a terrific job in creating a sense of community and belonging as shown in the way you treat one another. You are destined to make a positive impact beyond these halls. As you move on to Middle School, you will be challenged academically, but you are ready. I encourage you to get involved in all that Hamden Hall offers. I congratulate you, Class of 2031.”

Mr. Izzo took a moment to recognize and honor Grade 6 teachers Andrea Calandrelli, Beth Hunter, and Patrick Yeoman for their hard work during the year. He also acknowledged specialist teachers and other Lower School faculty members.

The ceremony concluded with a special gift to the graduates created by Mrs. Carroll – a special slideshow presentation full of pictures throughout the years. Following the ceremony, all the students and their families walked across to Swain Library for a reception.