Milton Hershey School Honors Rising Freshmen at the 2026 Promotion Ceremony

Milton Hershey School Middle Division students celebrated an important milestone during the Eighth Grade Promotion Ceremony on Friday, June 12, 2026. Parents/sponsors, teachers, administrators, and other community members gathered in the Catherine Hall Auditorium to recognize the accomplishments of the Class of 2030 as students prepare to transition to Senior Division.

The ceremony included welcome remarks, student speakers, special award recognitions, awarding of certificates, and a performance of the Alma Mater by the eighth grade choir. During the program, students had the opportunity to reflect on their Middle Division experience and look ahead to the opportunities awaiting them in high school.

Danielle Charles, MHS Middle Division Principal, reminded the audience about the school year’s theme, Our Pledge, and how students used it to reflect on the commitment we make to ourselves, to one another, and to the MHS Sacred Values that guide us.

“Our students have lived that Pledge through their dedication to learning, their resilience in overcoming challenges, and their willingness to grow as leaders and members of this community,” Charles said. “They have discovered new passions and talents, built lasting friendships, and learned valuable lessons both inside and outside of the classroom. As they stand on the brink of Senior Division, we recognize that this achievement is not just about academics, but it’s also about their character, integrity, and perseverance along the way.”

Jalynn Smith shared a student reflection about her time at Catherine Hall, noting that some of the biggest lessons are learned in the smallest moments.

“These are lessons that will guide us no matter where life takes us,” Smith said. “As we gather here today, we also have to recognize that growing up, means learning how to let go. Sometimes, you have to close the window to open the door. We have to say goodbye to this chapter, not because we aren’t to forget it, but because something new is waiting for us. Closing this window on middle school allows us to open the door to new opportunities, new experiences, and new versions of ourselves.”

To encourage students preparing for promotion, the class also heard from rising senior Mehki Connelly, president of the Class of 2027, who began his journey at MHS in fourth grade. He shared how the foundation he built at Catherine Hall helped shape his character and leadership.

“High school brings new challenges, responsibilities, and expectations,” said Connelly. “The classes get harder, your schedule will get busier, and there will be times when it all feels overwhelming. “But what helped me most was realizing that I didn’t have to have everything figured out right away. It is important to remember that success isn’t about being perfect; it is about continuing to grow and learn from your experiences.”

As part of the ceremony, school leaders recognized students who demonstrated the MHS Sacred Values of Commitment to Mission, Mutual Respect, Integrity, and Positive Spirit.

Students also were honored as lifers—those who enrolled at MHS in pre-K, kindergarten, or first grade—and one student, Elyse Osei-Manu received the Principal’s Art Award for outstanding creativity and artistic talent.

Each eighth grade student crossed the stage to receive a certificate, marking the completion of Middle Division and the beginning of their next chapter at MHS. The ceremony concluded with final remarks and refreshments outside, closing a meaningful celebration of students’ growth, accomplishments, and readiness for the road ahead.

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