To the Editor:

On Wednesday, the June 14, I joined my family and hundreds of others at a ceremony in the Newtown High School gym celebrating the moving up of Grade 8 Clusters Green and Red. I spent 41 years in education and have attended a lot of ceremonies, but there were some striking things about this particular event. First, the opening with the "Star Spangled Banner" sung by a young lady I do not know, Melissa Travali, whose beautiful voice paid respect to our national anthem in a way that can only be described as inspiring. I really think Melissa could teach many of the so-called celebrities who often destroy this difficult piece with their own interpretation of it, how to show the proper respect for our anthem. Thank you Melissa. Secondly, there was no doubt that this program was about the students. Many were recognized for their excellent work throughout the year and the respectful atmosphere and clarity of every word spoken added to the positive energy in the room. Thirdly, the students who spoke with grace and assurance, Nathaniel Wheeler, Hanna Cicciari, and Elise Beier on the topics of friendship, service, and doing the right thing, made me, and I am sure many others, feel pretty good about their future and ours.

My congratulations to the students and to the staff and administration who organized a first-rate ceremony. The personal touch accomplished through the cluster arrangement added to the general atmosphere. I, of course, did not observe the Blue and Purple Clusters ceremony, but I am sure it was done with the same level of professionalism. Again, thanks to all involved, but most especially to the students.

John S. Boccuzzi, Sr

57 Queen Street, Newtown         June 21, 2017