The 8th graders of Clancy and Montana City elementary schools received their diplomas and academic honors in separate graduation ceremonies last week.
On June 3, Clancy School said “so long” to 46 students in front of a gym-full of parents, family, and friends. After opening remarks from Superintendent Daryl Mikesell, 30 of the graduating students were recognized for maintaining a 4.0 grade point average for four quarters.
That list included Juliet Bell, who also received the annual Citizenship Award. Clancy teachers chose Sean Arbegast for the Petrosky Award, which honors a student who has succeeded while overcoming challenges.
Anne Jolliff delivered the Clancy commencement speech, sending her graduates off with words from C.S. Lewis: “There are better things ahead than any we have left behind.”
Montana City School graduated its 8th graders the next day, again in a packed house of well-wishers. The 56 graduates included 22 recognized for outstanding academic achievement, including President’s Award honorees Gabe Allen, Kendall Foley, and Cooper Pekovich.
That award is presented to students who maintained a 3.5 grade point average throughout 6th and 7th grade and the first semester of 8th grade. Several graduates spoke at the podium in pairs, recounting school experiences from each year, including the disappointments of 4th grade, when the pandemic prevented some annual class trips.
