Smiling through the raindrops, eighth-grade students gathered on the turf field to celebrate their transition to high school. On Tuesday evening, June 23, Weldon E. Howitt Middle School held its annual Moving-Up Ceremony. Despite the rainy weather, the ceremony for the graduates was filled with pride as families, friends, faculty, district administrators, and members of the Board of Education cheered on the Class of 2026.

The evening centered on the incredible journey of the students, highlighted by a moving performance from the Howitt Middle School Chorus. Principal Mike Gavalas shared inspiring reflections on the students' growth, academic milestones, and perseverance. Superintendent Paul Defendini joined him on stage to present certificates and congratulate each student.

The district also honored two outstanding individuals for their leadership and service. Kanika Jassi received the Board of Education Scholarship & Citizens Award for demonstrating exceptional character, citizenship, discipline, and leadership. Samantha Caivano received the Dr. Gary E. Karp Award, recognizing her dedication to the school and community.

As these bright scholars prepare to enter Farmingdale High School this fall, their achievements lay a strong foundation for the future. The entire community looks forward to watching the Class of 2026 reach new heights.

On June 23, 2026, the Albany Avenue Elementary School community gathered in the auditorium at Howitt Middle School to witness a major milestone for the graduating class. Parents, family members, and teachers looked on with pride as the students took their seats, marking the transition from their elementary years to their next academic chapter.

Principal Joseph Valentine commended the students during his address, focusing heavily on their profound impact as student leaders. He noted how the graduates consistently served as compassionate mentors to the youngest Dalers in the building. Following his remarks, Student Council President Ava Black took the podium to deliver an inspiring speech, reflecting on shared memories and thanking the faculty and families for their unwavering support.

The ceremony concluded with the presentation of moving-up certificates to honor each student's personal, social, and academic growth. These scholars leave Albany Avenue Elementary School with a strong foundation of treasured memories, deep friendships, and shared achievements. They now look forward to the opportunities awaiting them at Howitt Middle School, where they will undoubtedly continue to build on their legacy of excellence.

JUNE 16 FHS Class of 2026 Graduation

JUNE 18 NS 5th Grade Moving-Up Ceremony

JUNE 22 HMS 8th Grade Moving-Up Ceremony

JUNE 23 AA 5th Grade Moving-Up Ceremony

JUNE 24 SEM 5th Grade Moving-Up Ceremony

JUNE 24 WP 5th Grade Moving-Up Ceremony

The sound of roaring applause and cheering families filled the Weldon E. Howitt Middle School auditorium on June 18, 2026, as fifth-grade students took their places for the Northside Elementary School moving-up ceremony. Principal Dr. Christopher Peterson welcomed the audience and praised the students for their hard work, dedication, and resilience throughout their elementary school years. The milestone event also marked a special beginning for instructional associate William Ahrens, who celebrated his first moving-up ceremony with the district.

The celebration highlighted the profound growth, shared experiences, and tight-knit community of the graduating class. The audience enjoyed a retrospective slideshow capturing years of learning, laughter, and friendship. Following the presentation, the entire fifth-grade class took the stage together to perform a special musical piece they had spent weeks rehearsing, filling the green-and-white decorated auditorium with shared pride.

As these young learners look ahead to officially attending Weldon E. Howitt Middle School in the fall, they carry with them certificates, cherished memories, and the confidence to embrace their next academic chapter.

Walking Down Memory Lane

On June 12, 2026, Farmingdale High School’s graduating seniors returned to their former elementary school hallways and playgrounds to celebrate their incredible growth and reunite with beloved teachers.