Milton Hershey School Recognizes the Achievements of Rising Freshmen

On Friday, June 10, Milton Hershey School eighth-grade students celebrated their promotion to Senior Division with their peers, teachers, houseparents, MHS staff, and community members. These rising freshmen have been given the skills necessary to succeed and are excited to embark on the last leg of their MHS journey.

Tara Valoczki, MHS Middle Division Principal, welcomed students, guests, and faculty to the ceremony and shared her congratulations to the eighth grade on all they’ve accomplished and everything to come in the future.

Deneia Howard, an MHS rising freshman, shared a message of encouragement with her classmates. “Keep your eyes on the light at the end of the tunnel…we can’t stop here,” she said.

Students received awards for their successes in the areas of modeling positive character, good citizenship, and being an MHS “lifer.” Students who enroll at MHS in pre-K, kindergarten, or first grade are known at the school as a “lifer.” Upon their promotion to each division and their graduation from high school, these students are recognized for their dedication and commitment to the mission and values of MHS.

Every eighth-grade student received a certificate as a part of the ceremony to honor their achievements inside and outside the classroom. Bethany Trackney, another MHS eighth-grader, addressed her class with this school year’s theme in mind.

“We have made it together. We are Greater Together. Walk with pride in all that you have accomplished,” she shared.”

Congratulations to the MHS Class of 2026 on all you’ve accomplished and your promotion to Senior Division!

Learn More About Commencement Weekend at MHS

2022 Milton Hershey School Eighth-Grade Promotion Ceremony