Dressed in their best, the proud graduates of Waverly Park School filed into the auditorium to a hearty round of applause.

Before receiving their diplomas, the students recited an original poem recounting their fondest memories. Guest speaker Gerard Beleckas, assistant superintendent for curriculum, instruction and assessment, reminded them to look to their families for support as they move on to the middle school. PTA Co-Presidents Lisa Hoffman and Michele Greenfeld imparted some sweet advice using a visual poem laden with clever candy references.

In a longstanding tradition, the students then read their “Last Will and Testament,” with each graduate bequeathing a special memory to their school. They concluded the ceremony with a photo slideshow as they sang, “Back Home.”