Veritas Celebrates Graduation of Its 8th Grade Class

On Thursday, May 21, the students, teachers, and families of Veritas Preparatory School gathered in the chapel to celebrate the graduation of four outstanding eighth-grade students and to wish them well as they begin the next chapter of their educational journey. The ceremony marked the conclusion of their middle school years and the exciting beginning of high school.

Headmaster Jill Rosario opened the ceremony by welcoming graduates, families, and friends and reflecting on the accomplishments of the Class of 2026. Assistant Headmaster David Ernst and seventh and eighth-grade teacher Brianna Behimer then shared remarks about each graduate, highlighting the unique gifts, character, and contributions they brought to the Veritas community.

A special part of the ceremony was the graduates' own presentations. Each student delivered a personal speech, expressing gratitude to the parents, teachers, and classmates who had supported and encouraged them throughout their years at Veritas. They also shared a lighthearted "Top Ten" list, recalling favorite memories and experiences from their time at the school.

As a meaningful parting gift, each graduate received the Bible they had used during their years at Veritas, symbolizing the foundation of faith that has been central to their education. They were also presented with a special boxed set of The Lord of the Rings, a series that held particular significance during their middle school years and reflected the school's appreciation for great literature, courage, and virtue.

The celebration concluded with the traditional Eighth-Grade Walk. Students, families, and staff lined the sidewalk outside the chapel, cheering and applauding as the graduates made their final walk as Veritas middle school students. The moment was both joyful and bittersweet — a fitting sendoff for a class that has left a lasting mark on the school community.

As the graduates move on to high school, the Veritas family celebrates their achievements and looks forward with confidence to all that lies ahead. Their years at Veritas have prepared them not only academically, but also in character and faith, providing a strong foundation for the opportunities and challenges to come.

Congratulations to the eighth-grade graduates — Anthony Meleen, Adam Mikulak, Andrea Quiles, and Autumn Thomas! May God bless you in your future endeavors!