The Gardnertown Elementary School, part of the Newburgh Enlarged City School District, held a dual celebration yesterday. Fifth grade students were celebrated for their DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) program and their moving up ceremony.
The ceremony was held in the Gardnertown School auditorium/cafeteria and was the first such event in over two years. Every teacher who spoke during the ceremony applauded the students for their growth and dedication throughout the unprecedented times they endured.
The auditorium was filled with an air of pride as parents and guardians listened to the praises sung upon their children. Some teachers were moved to tears as they recounted the moments and memories leading to the ceremony. There were also a few 5th graders who shed tears watching their favorite teachers get emotional. The connection between the Gardnertown seniors, the staff and their school building was certainly felt.
After the ceremony, the children and their families greeted each other outside. The children laughed, cried and hugged one another. They took selfies with their friends and portraits with their families.
