BY AMANDA MOSES
Middle is school is often said to be the stepping-stone to a teenager’s future. It’s the start of a journey that will lead them toward, perhaps, a specialty high school and if they work hard enough an Ivy League University.
At the start of the 2019-2020 academic year, pre-teens who entered sixth grade only enjoyed about seven months of normalcy and then they were quarantined at home, learned remotely and participated in blended learning. In their third and final year, with the implementation of masks and vaccinations, they were welcomed back fully in-person.
On June 24th, Frederick Douglass Academy VIII held it’s first fully in-person graduation ceremony after three years of enduring the COVID-19 pandemic outside in the school’s playground. Beneath a tent, dozens of scholars dressed in burgundy robes prepared themselves to take the next step in their education—high school.
During the ceremony, Principal Chantal Grandchamps acknowledged these obstacles that the students barely on the cusp of their teenage years overcame. She applauded their studious efforts and ability to continue to look toward the future bright eyed and with confidence.
Grandchamps also shared that it has been years of grief for those who perished during that time and commended the bravery and perseverance of both the students and faculty as they fought through it all.
“If there was one word to describe the strength of this group of scholars, students with the resilience, bravery and courage and strength you have stolen from starting with us in sixth grade in a completely different world,” Grandchamps said, adding, “When we picture someone brave, we think they are fearless. But real courage comes from feeling afraid and facing the challenges that come our way anyway.”
This year’s valedictorian was Jaida Crews, and David Clement was FDA’s Salutatorian. Awards were distributed for Best Attendance, Most Improvement, Mayor Adams’ Commencement Awards, Brooklyn President Perseverance, Triple C, and more.
“As you begin your next chapter of your life because this is just the beginning. You have a tomorrow and that next chapter never forget the strength that you have. And sometimes when you don’t have the strength to believe in yourself, those people behind you, they believe in you and know that you are loved,” Ms. Green, FDA VIII’s Assistant Principal said, pointing at the family and friends who sat behind the graduating class.
Photos by Amanda Moses
