CLARK — Eighth graders at Carl H. Kumpf Middle School participated in a promotion ceremony on June 18, attended by Clark Public School district leaders, family members, teachers, administrators and other community members.

Reflecting on her time at Kumpf, Salutatorian Mia Liu encouraged the class to “take today to acknowledge the accomplishments you’ve made and how far you’ve come. It’s also important to remember the people that have helped get us here.”

Superintendent Edward Grande also addressed the class. “You should be very proud of what you have accomplished thus far, both in the classroom and on the field and stage,” he said. “Trust that you are leaving Kumpf as well-equipped for this new challenge as you could possibly be.”

Principal Rick Delmonaco congratulated all of those who received awards at the awards ceremony held the previous week, among them Eeshan Dixit, who received the Citizenship Award, and Morgan Chesney, who was given the Faculty Award. Mr. Delmonaco also recognized the retirements of teachers Barbara Corby, Cheri Fabrizzio and Judith Koebli, Ph.D.

Valedictorian Stephen Ortiz noted that, “our time at Kumpf has prepared us not just for high school but has prepared us for life’s journey. During our time at Kumpf, we’ve grown, we’ve matured, and we’ve developed into the young men and women who sit here today,” he said.

Assistant PrincipalAmanda Clarke read the names and Clark Board of Education members presented the students with their diplomas.