Milton Hershey School Promotes Eighth Graders to High School

On Friday, June 13, Milton Hershey School eighth grade students gathered in Catherine Hall to mark a meaningful milestone—their final celebration as Middle Division students and the beginning of their journey into high school. The promotion ceremony honored 218 students in front of their parents/sponsors and the MHS community. 

Middle Division Principal Kara Schoessler welcomed all in attendance for this special occasion, reminding them of what this moment truly means in the students’ lives. 

“As our students stand on the brink of high school, we remember that this achievement is not just about academics, but also about the character and resilience they have shown,” Schoessler said. 

To inspire his classmates as they look toward the future, eighth grade student Fisayo Abidakun delivered the opening scripture with a message of hope and reassurance during this time of transition. 

“As you step forward into more responsibility, remember you are not walking on a blank page. You’re stepping into a story God has already laid out for you. One full of hope, growth and purpose,” Abidakun said. 

Eighth grader Morgan Fenton took the podium to share a reflection on her MHS journey. She spoke about how her houseparents challenged her to Raise the Bar in seventh grade—a pivotal moment she will never forget. Recognizing the power of this sentiment among her class, Morgan highlighted the resilience and determination represented in those she is entering high school with.  

“Look around,” Fenton said. “In this room, I see future doctors, lawyers, chefs, artists, teachers, responders and so much more. We are the future. You are the future.” 

Emely Manzanillo Moreno also shared from her personal experience at MHS with a charge to her classmates on how they should view this moment in light of the day they all walk across the stage at GIANT Center and become Milton Hershey School graduates. 

“Instead of giving in to defeat, we strived and we grew. We didn’t let our past define us. Instead we defined what we can accomplish,” she said. 

Thirteen members of the Class of 2029 who enrolled in pre-K, kindergarten, or first grade were recognized. At MHS, these students earn the distinction of being a “lifer” once they graduate.  

Several students were honored for various awards themed around the Sacred Values. Additionally, the distinguished Principal’s Art Award was presented to Saravia Vasquez. Her art piece was unveiled on stage and will be displayed in the halls of Catherine Hall. The Purnell Payne Award was presented to Madelyn Stockwell and Fisayo Abidakun for their outstanding musical abilities.  

To conclude the ceremony, MHS Middle Division Home Life Director DJ Hendrick delivered a poem that reflected on the Class of 2029’s memorable moments and milestones, sparking smiles and laughter throughout the room. It was a memorable way to end the event, reminding each student of the support they have received and the accomplishments they can proudly carry forward. 

Watch the 2025 Eighth Grade Promotion Ceremony