The last week of a Hill School student’s career is marked with a sense of accomplishment, laughter, tears, and a series of special traditions. Eighth graders have spent from nine months to nine years at Hill, and all of them share memories that will last a lifetime.
One tradition is the 8th grade awards assembly. Students are recognized for their leadership roles in the mentoring, athletic, and Student 
Council programs. Additionally, students are acknowledged for their Effort and Academic Achievement grades. Subject area awards recognize those 8th graders who excelled in their classes. This year, Laura McCauley, from Highland School, presented Merit awards to two graduating 8th graders.
On the morning of graduation day each 8th grade students speaks to a special assembly of the upper school students, faculty, parents, and guests, about their favorite Hill School memory – it might be a specific event, a special teacher, or an observation about what Hill School has meant to them. These memories fill those in attendance with the same laughter and tears the 8th graders are experiencing.
The week concludes with the graduation ceremony. Over 350 people attended Commencement on June 7th to celebrate each graduate. These students hold a special place in the hearts and minds of all faculty and staff, and like the graduates who have come before them, they are part of what makes Hill School such a special place.
