Celebrating New Beginnings: 2025 Moving Up Ceremonies

Each school year, Cannon School proudly marks the academic progress of its students through a cherished tradition: the Moving Up Ceremonies. Held in the Cindric Performing Arts Center (CPAC), these special gatherings honor the achievements of students at pivotal moments in their educational journey. This year’s ceremonies, held on May 28 and 29, celebrated the Kindergarten, 4th Grade, and 8th Grade classes as they prepared to take their next steps at Cannon.

These ceremonies are more than milestones—they celebrate the journey of becoming. As our students rise to meet new challenges and opportunities, we celebrate their courage, their achievements, and the bright paths ahead.

Kindergarten Moving Up Ceremony
On the morning of May 29, young members of our school community took the stage with pride and excitement. The Kindergarten Moving Up Ceremony was filled with joyful energy as students performed songs for their families and received their certificates from Head of School Mike Drew. This milestone marks the next step of their Lower School journey, an exciting transition made even more memorable with a post-ceremony reception in Gay’s Garden.

4th Grade Moving Up Ceremony
That same day, the 4th Grade Moving Up Ceremony ushered in the next chapter for the Class of 2033 as they prepare to join Middle School in the fall. Dr. Regina Nixon, Head of Lower School, and Ms. Carla Moyer, Head of Middle School, welcomed families and recognized the hard work and growth of the class.

A highlight of the event was a series of student reflections on Cannon’s core values. Representatives Thomas G., Rashik B., Brynn S., Eslyn S., Andrew K., Nico B., and Avery R. each spoke thoughtfully, offering insight into the character of the Cannon community. Mr. Drew then presented certificates to each student, and the ceremony concluded with a class musical performance—a fitting end to their Lower School experience.

8th Grade Honors Night
On the evening of May 28, the Class of 2029 gathered for 8th Grade Honors Night, a promotion event that celebrated their Middle School years and prepared them for the transition to Upper School.

The evening featured several student speeches and a series of special recognitions. Charlie Z. and Kaylee S. received the John Riley Leadership Through Service Award, while Reid C. and Rani C. were honored with the George W. Liles Citizenship Award. The prestigious McWhorter Medallion was awarded to Sam G. and Rumaisa S.

In addition to award presentations, the ceremony included a moving series of student reflections delivered by candidates for the Liles Citizenship Award—Rani C., Reid C., Cayden F., Sam G., John H., Grace K., Reid K., Kaylee S., and Rumaisa S. Their words captured the journey of growth experienced in Middle School.

Dean of 8th Grade Students Christiana Holyer presented each student with a certificate of completion, formally recognizing their promotion to Upper School. Head of Middle School Carla Moyer and faculty member Lori Macdonald offered remarks, sharing reflections on the class’s unique spirit. Dr. Fabio Hurtado, Head of Upper School, was also on hand to welcome the rising freshmen and celebrate their bright futures ahead.

The ceremony offered a heartfelt tribute to the accomplishments, personal growth, and meaningful contributions of the Class of 2029. With proud families looking on, it served as a powerful reminder of the transformative nature of the middle school experience.