Port Jefferson Middle School eighth-grade students were honored at the annual moving up ceremony on June 21 at the high school.

With welcome remarks by Principal Dr. Robert Neidig, the 83 students of the Class of 2022 were recognized for their academic and athletic achievements and several special recognitions, Presidential Awards for Academic Excellence and certificates to signify their move to high school. Eighth-grade Student Council President Emily Hearney then addressed her classmates with reflection on their academic years together.

Jessica Schmettan, assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction, then presented congratulatory remarks and assisted Dr. Neidig with awarding diplomas.

Schmettan offered words of encouragement to the students and commended the school community, friends, classmates and family members for the structured village of support to help the students succeed in high school and beyond.

“The independence and maturity that you have begun to develop in middle school will continue to shape you as young adults ready to take on the world,” she said to the graduates. “Your village will be there [to support you.]”