Eighth Graders Move Up to High School

South Orangetown Middle School celebrated the advancement of 215 eighth-grade students at its 2026 Moving Up Ceremony this morning!

The SOMS Band, under the direction of Music teacher Tyler Leitman, welcomed students, staff and guests with performances of “Pomp and Circumstance,” “The Star Spangled Banner” and “Rippling Watercolors.”

Class President Miles M. reflected on shared memories and the importance of living in the now. “There’s so much that happens between the present and later on in life. Be in the now or you’ll miss the moments that we can’t get back. Moments of excitement, sadness, joy, struggle or happiness,” he noted. “While we may not all be the best of friends, this ceremony is another memory that we’re sharing together and will forever keep us bonded in some way. No matter where we end up or what road we take, we will always be connected and can say that we did this together.”

In his remarks, Principal Chad Corey, Ed.D. noted the following academic achievements of the the eighth grade class:

* 95% of eighth graders earned a high school credit in a World Language
* 37% of the class was inducted into the National Junior Honor Society
* 45% earned a high school credit in Studio in Art or Design, Drawing & Production
* 27% took Algebra Honors, with scores on the Regents that included a 100% passing rate, 2 perfect scores of 100, 1 score of 99 and 7 scores of 97
* 54% took Earth Science, with scores on the Regents that included a 100% passing rate, 1 perfect score of 100, 4 scores of 99, 13 scores of 98 and 11 scores of 97

“Today, we celebrate all that you have achieved. Tomorrow, we look ahead to the many opportunities and challenges that await you. Approach the future with confidence, curiosity and a commitment to becoming the very best version of yourself. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your journey—to teach you, to learn from you and to grow alongside you,” said Corey. “As you continue on to high school, remember to lead with kindness, support one another and believe in your ability to make a meaningful difference.”

Following the presentation of more than 20 special awards, Corey formally presented the eighth graders to Tappan Zee High School Principal Melissa Luciano as the TZHS Class of 2030.

Congratulations and good luck to our incoming ninth-graders!