Wappingers Junior High School celebrated its 8th Grade Moving Up Ceremony on June 14, 2025, with a heartfelt awards presentation recognizing outstanding student achievements. The ceremony highlighted academic excellence and character development, showcasing the school’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals.

Among the notable awards presented were the English Language Arts award, which went to Francesca Giazmondo, and the World Language award, awarded to Sofia Gaza. Megan Klapuktowski received the Mathematics award, while Luke Edwards was honored with the Social Studies award.

A significant addition this year was the inaugural Citizenship Award, named in memory of Jack Antonio Cortez. This award aims to honor students who embody the qualities that Jack exemplified, including enthusiasm, empathy, and honesty. The award was presented to Cillian Hines, Kylie Cosma, and Sekhar Clow, all of whom were nominated by their teachers for their outstanding character.

The ceremony not only celebrated academic achievements but also emphasized the importance of character in education. The school plans to continue this award annually, ensuring Jack's legacy and the values he represented remain a vital part of the school community. The presence of Jack's family at the event added a poignant touch, reinforcing the community's commitment to honoring his memory.

As Wappingers Junior High School looks forward to future ceremonies, the emphasis on both academic and character awards reflects a holistic approach to student development, preparing them for the next steps in their educational journeys.