Parents stand by with pride on their faces as newly christened freshmen cross the Jack Hontz bridge, and the signature Haven cadence blares as students enter the high school auditorium on June 12, 2025.
The annual ceremony consisted of speeches and awards from SHMS teachers and admin.
Crossing the bridge remains a rite of passage for incoming freshmen as they remember middle school while walking towards the future.
“It felt kind of weird because it didn’t seem like that long ago that we were just going into sixth grade,” rising freshman Evelyn Smith said.
Inside the auditorium, students were greeted by a few words from middle school principal Dr. Christopher Matsanka.
“I’ve watched you grow not just taller and louder, but kinder, braver, stronger and smarter,” Matsanka said. “Being a part of your lives, watching your minds and hearts expand, that’s the greatest gift.”
In addition to words from the principal, speeches were given out by administrators such as middle school guidance counselor Mr. Matthew Elliser and high school counselor Mr. Gavin Stewart.
Over the course of the year, 8th graders raised money for a service project they selected. This year they worked towards raising money for the Veterans Multi-Service Center. SHMS staff revealed the check which totaled to $6,100.50.
According to VMC’s website, their mission is to “provide services, programs, opportunity and advancement to Veterans of the U.S. military and their families.”
Middle school health and PE teacher Ms. Pixie Roane, a veteran herself, offered touching words on what the service project meant to her and the community,
“I am eternally grateful and humbled that each of you took your time to think about those of us who put our lives on the line so that you may have the freedoms that you deserve,” Roane said. “What you have done for us is truly thankful, not only here in the local veterans multi-service center, but throughout the entire country.”
Students were also presented with various awards from staff including the Zach Rufo music award and the Carson Prey-Harbaugh art award. Other notable awards included athletic, academic and faculty-voted recognitions.
A video composed of images taken throughout the graduates’ middle school years was projected onto the main stage, many of the photos met with embarrassed giggles.
“It was very nostalgic,” rising freshman Damini Mydur said. “It was really nice just going through all the memories.”
SHHS principal Mr. Andrew Benzing spoke to the students, expressing his excitement for their arrival.
“Success comes in all forms, whether it be approaching the booth at our activities fair or taking risks here and there, it’s our job to support you as best we can with some level of success when you come here at the high school,” Benzing said.
Finally, incoming seniors and student council president and co-vice president Minori Saito and Casper Stockman addressed the crowd, providing uplifting words and advice.
“Crossing that bridge is a major milestone, and with it comes a new beginning, a fresh start, to take risks, try something unexpected, meet new people and discover yourself,” Stockman said.
As their final year in middle school comes to an end, newly-minted freshmen are left to consider what the future will hold.
“I’m nervous because I don’t know what to expect, but I’m just gonna go in with an open mind, and we’re gonna make the best out of it,” rising freshman Tosin Adenuci said.
Making the transition can bring about a slew of emotions, but students are encouraged that the future is bright.
“You’re moving on to high school now, and I know that may bring excitement, nerves, or a mix of both,” Matsanka said. “But, let me tell you this: you are ready.”
