Fifth and eighth graders at Airline Drive Academy are moving on to higher levels of learning. The students have made huge strides and were celebrated during ceremonies on June 24 that marked the beginning of exciting new chapters for them.
“A number of these students here graduating from elementary school have been with us since the beginning and those who have joined Airline Academy along the way have only added to our positive school community,” said Principal Barbara Lounello.
“These fifth and eighth graders have grown to be great role models for their young classmates and to the young students throughout our school. It has been a true pleasure to be part of their growth.”
Nine fifth graders were honored with a moving up ceremony that was followed by a graduation ceremony for nine eighth graders. The fifth graders are moving on to Airline’s middle school while the eighth graders are exiting Airline to attend high school at Capital Region BOCES Maywood Academy in September.
“I’m so glad that you’re all here to recognize the accomplishments of these eighth graders who will be moving on to high school. All of us are extremely proud,” said Special Education Teacher Damon Bieniek.
“My eighth grader, Andrew Morrissey, has been with me for three years and has made enormous progress in all academic areas in addition to building upon his confidence,” he said.
Special Education Teacher Sarah Ricci, said, “Although I have only been working with Malachi [Lee] since the end of March, I’ve seen the positive impact that he has had on both his peers and staff in his many years at Airline. I enjoyed watching his participation in the community, including mentoring younger students as part of the Big Buddies program, school jobs and socializing with everyone in the building.”
Lounello concluded the ceremonies with remarks acknowledging the students’ families for their support over the years, as well as staff members who are the “heart” of Airline.
“You’ve guided, taught, encouraged and inspired. You helped shape these young minds and hearts and you made a true impact. To our families, thank you for trusting us with your children, for supporting them every challenge and for being their biggest cheerleaders. Your partnership has meant everything,” she said. 
To the graduates’ families, Lounello said, “As our students, your children, leave [this chapter] behind and move on to new adventures, they will of course face some new challenges. They will learn how to navigate the world, become more independent and have the opportunity to make some new choices. They will make new friends, learn new things and they will grow. It has been our honor to be by their side, helping them to grow and to learn.”