Pennsylvania Avenue School Celebrates 8th Grade Stepping Up Ceremony

Pennsylvania Avenue School proudly held its 8th Grade Stepping Up Ceremony on Friday, June 13, 2025, in the school’s cafetorium. With the theme “Dare to Shine: Destined for Greatness,” the celebration honored the students’ hard work, growth, and the journey ahead as they move into high school.

The ceremony was filled with inspiring messages of resilience, determination, and kindness—values deeply rooted in the Pennsylvania Avenue School community. Educators, families, and students gathered in support of the Class of 2025, applauding not only academic milestones but also the strength and character built over time.

Principal Thomas Biggins opened the program with a speech encouraging students to lead with kindness and work hard. He reminded students that “excellence doesn’t mean being perfect,” but instead showing up, trying again, and building strong habits. His words underscored the importance of perseverance, urging students to keep striving—even when the path ahead is challenging.

“Keep grinding,” Biggins said. “Your hard work will open doors you can’t even see yet.” He also emphasized that compassion and empathy are the hallmarks of true leadership. “Being kind makes you strong,” he said. “It makes you a leader, not a follower.”

Salutatorian Ayana Frierson delivered a moving speech about balancing academics and athletics. A proud student-athlete, Frierson spoke of the challenges of juggling both commitments, saying, “Being great doesn’t mean being perfect. It means giving your best, even when it’s tough.” Her story highlighted dedication and gratitude, and she credited her community—teammates, coaches, family, and teachers—for their support.

Frierson reflected on nights when she studied for science tests after long practices, showing that greatness is a matter of choice and mindset. “Every foul taught me to play fair. Every ‘try again’ taught me to push harder,” she said, reminding her peers to embrace both the struggle and the lessons.

Valedictorian Joendy Viola Pimentel captivated the audience with his story of perseverance. Arriving in the United States at age seven, he faced the challenge of learning a new language and adjusting to a new culture. “I dared to shine, even when I was afraid,” Pimentel said. Through effort, vulnerability, and determination, he built confidence and academic success, proving that courage can turn obstacles into triumphs.

His speech resonated deeply, painting a vivid picture of how progress is made one brave step at a time. “Shining doesn’t mean being perfect. It means being brave enough to try,” Pimentel shared, inspiring classmates to never stop reaching for their dreams.

The keynote address came from Iesha Khan, a Pennsylvania Avenue School alumna and current Rutgers University student. She reflected on missing her own 8th grade ceremony during the pandemic, urging students to be present in the moment. “Nothing in life is guaranteed,” Khan reminded the class. Her reflections emphasized that growth often comes through failure, and that self-compassion is essential in times of uncertainty.

As the ceremony came to a close, students walked across the stage with their certificates in hand, cheered on by loved ones. Their smiles and proud expressions signaled a bright future ahead—one defined not by perfection, but by courage, effort, and a commitment to shine.

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Photo Credit to: Mark Tyler, District Communications Specialist