William B. Ward Elementary School’s Moving-Up ceremonies, held over two days, were memorable experiences for 159 fifth-graders and their families.
“I’m proud of the entire staff, students, and families at Ward for overcoming the obstacles that we faced the last couple of years,” said Principal Franco Miele.
Student speakers from each class – Brandon Brucaj, Jessica Ann Byrne, Hailey Terez Hanney, Ademola Lapdao Jr., Camila Minaya, Melanny Oliveros-Novoa, Chloe Rodriguez, George Angel Saldana, and Saul Sandoval – welcomed attendees in English and Spanish. Teachers spoke about being kind, students being the best version of themselves, believing in themselves and making a difference in the world. Hayden Turnbull, a student in Matthew Reid’s class, said, “Today was great, but a part of me is sad because that means my time at Ward is almost over!”
Students took pictures in front of the new murals by New Rochelle artist Daniel Henderson. The back of the building was decorated beautifully, and the setting was complemented with instrumentals performed by music teacher Robert Flanz. The fifth-grade team thanks all Ward staff members, especially the custodians and PTA, for their assistance, as well as additional speakers Superintendent Jonathan Raymond, Board of Education members Margaret Bavosa and Katie Castellano Minaya, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Olivine Roberts, Executive Director for Educational Leadership and Early Learning Dr. Nicolas Cracco, Assistant Principals Kim Peluso and Rudelina Murray, and retired Ward teacher Nat Harris.
