Middle School Closing Exercises: The Class of 2030 Is Ready for the Next Pitch

Family, friends, faculty, and staff gathered in the Matthews Theater of the Performing Arts and Community Center on Friday, June 5, 2026, to celebrate the accomplishments of the Class of 2030 during Gill St. Bernard’s School’s Middle School Closing Exercises.

The ceremony marked an important milestone as Eighth Grade students reflected on their Middle School years and looked ahead to the opportunities and experiences that await them in Upper School.

Lower and Middle School Director Kyle Armstrong P ’21, ’29, ’36 welcomed guests and reflected on the many moments that shaped the Class of 2030’s journey, from cherished traditions and school events to performances, athletics, field trips, and the everyday experiences that helped define their Middle School years.

As part of his remarks, Armstrong shared a personal story from his days as a college baseball player. Recalling the nerves he felt before his first collegiate at-bat, he described how stepping into the batter’s box required him to make a choice: take action despite uncertainty. While that swing ultimately resulted in a memorable two-run home run, Armstrong reminded students that the most important lesson was not the outcome—it was the decision to step forward and participate.

Comparing the transition to Upper School to a pivotal “2-1 count” in baseball, Armstrong encouraged students to embrace new opportunities with confidence and courage.

“Life is not for standing on the sidelines,” Armstrong told the class. “By deciding to join the action, you might learn that you are capable of far more than you realize.”

The Middle School Choir filled the room with song and delivered a lovely rendition of I See Stars by Jeff Richmond and Nell Benjamin. After GSB faculty bestowed this year’s Middle School Awards and Prizes, Head of School Dr. Delvin Dinkins concluded the ceremony by awarding the Class of 2030 their Certifications of Completion.

We wish all our Middle School graduates much success as they move on to the Upper School next year.

Congratulations!

Middle School Honors and Prizes

Brett Mershon Citizenship Award:

The most important prize that a Middle School student can obtain, the Brett Mershon citizenship award is presented annually to the student who best upholds the Gill School motto of faith, honor, and consideration.

Fifth Grade: Edwin Cheng

Sixth Grade: Jack Peacock

Seventh Grade: Bela Shah

Eighth Grade: John Babula

 

7th Grade Scholastic Honors Award:
Awarded to the student who maintains the highest cumulative grade -point average among his or her classmates throughout the academic year.
 

Avery Sharpe

 

Girls' Athletic Award:

Awarded to the eighth-grade girl(s) who, in the opinion of her coaches, best represents the qualities of determination, leadership, cooperation, and sportsmanship.

Anabel Hercules

 

Boys' Athletic Award: 

Awarded to the eighth-grade boy(s) who, in the opinion of his coaches, best represents the qualities of determination, leadership, cooperation, and sportsmanship.

Timothy Hollick
 

Francis Winston Award:

Presented to the eighth-grade student who, in the opinion of the faculty, has demonstrated the most significant personal growth throughout Middle School.

Henry Sabol
 

Marjorie Hibbler Award:

Presented to the eighth-grade student who consistently demonstrates passion for and devotion to independent reading.

Grace Peacock
 

Frank Mazzochi Award:

A silver bowl presented to the eighth-grade boy who best exemplifies a friendly manner, integrity, sincerity, loyalty and a willingness to help others, and a devotion to GSB.

Timothy Hollick
 

Martha Gray Award:

Presented to an eighth-grade girl who has consistently demonstrated loyalty, integrity, and sincerity during her time in the Middle School.

Anabel Hercules
 

Scholastic Honors Award:

Presented to the eighth-grade student who maintains the highest cumulative grade point average throughout the academic year.

John Babula

 

Character Award:

Katie Judd and Jon Hanson

 

Please enjoy some photos from the event below and view the full gallery of photos through Bedrosian Photo. If you missed the pre-order for the group portrait, you can still place an order through Becky Bedrosian Photography.