It was an evening to celebrate, to recognize accomplishments and to share well-wishes. It was the Virtual Promotion Ceremony last night (5.19.20) from Lakeland Middle Preparatory School (LMPS) honoring the 8th Grade Class of 2020.
These 8th graders happily left school March 13th, destined for a week of spring break. The one-week vacation became two+ months off from school because of the COVID-19 pandemic. They would not return to their classes, their activities, and their friends for the remainder of the school year because the virus quarantined families and businesses throughout not only Lakeland but the world.
But the unprecedented times did not stop the Lakeland School System (LSS) from honoring the 209 8th graders who now move to the 9th grade at various high schools in the Memphis area.
Link to the LMPS FB page with video of Promotion Ceremony: https://www.facebook.com/LMPSLions/
“You’ll always be a Lakeland Lion” was the theme as the 46-minute video began with messages from staff and fellow students.
In addressing the students, LMPS Principal Matt Adler said, “This is the first class who were required to show the most perseverance by transitioning from a normal daily schedule to a schedule altered by our current health crisis. The character developed during this challenging time will last you a lifetime. You are truly Lion strong and we are all so very proud of you.”
Virtually addressing class members, parents, family, friends and school staff was Elijah Hawkins who is the Student Council president.
Marian Jamora, accompanied by Donna Sloan, played violin, “Mediation from Thais.” Toby Harrell sang “Count on Me.” And the LMPS Band played “Spit Fire.”
Top students in the class were recognized and gave addresses.
- Valedictorian – Emma Tran
- Salutatorian – Sean Chung
Also acknowledged were students on the Principal’s Honor Roll, Faculty Honor Roll, Citizenship and those with perfect attendance.
The final address of the evening was from Dr. Ted Horrell, LSS superintendent. “This is a remarkable year for a lot of obvious reasons. But one reason that people might not realize is that you are the very first class to go straight through kindergarten all the way to 8th grade in Lakeland schools,” said Dr. Horrell.
“So many of you started Lakeland Elementary in kindergarten and went straight through to Lakeland Middle Preparatory School. Others of you came and started at a later date.”
He acknowledged to the students this was not the ending to school anyone wanted. “However, it doesn’t change anything about how proud we are of you and the things you’ve accomplished and the contributions to the culture, to the arts, to the athletics and to the academics of our school system.
“So again, on behalf of the School Board, I thank you, I congratulate you. And I hope you have an amazing summer, despite the circumstances.
“Never forget you have the heart of a Lion.”
… Photos from the video program
