On May 20, students, teachers, and parents gathered to celebrate the 8th graders at the annual 8th grade gala, themed “The Enchanted Starry Night.” The gala is an event that celebrates the 8th grade students and their completion of middle school. It is an opportunity to celebrate their hard work, growth, and accomplishments throughout middle school. Students can also enjoy being with their class as a whole group before heading to high school.

Throughout the pandemic, it has been a challenge to have this event; in 2020 and 2021 we had to modify the gala intensively to meet COVID guidelines. This year we were able to finally invite parents once again! Since the Gala was held outdoors, students were also able to remove masks for photos and for eating the delicious, catered meal that was provided. What a joy to see their whole faces once again!

The EMCees for the night were Joy C., Kaiden H., and Lily K. During the evening, awards were also presented to students by their teachers, acknowledging their accomplishments and hard work throughout the year. The award winners were as follows:

• Andy L. - Guardian Award

• Amiah D. and Sky J. - Leadership Awards

• David J., Lily K., Alissa R. - Community Service Award

• Preeti B., Faisal A., Mays A., Joshua K. - Growth Mindset Award

Other than the awards, students also presented flowers to their parents, enjoyed a special dance performance put on by their peers, and attended an “after-party” on campus where they could play sports and board games, and watch the end-of-the-year video presentation full of their memories.

The YISS Community is proud of its students and was happy to celebrate this milestone with the 8th grade class. Congratulations, 8th graders! And thank you to the parents and middle school staff who put in hours of work to decorate the courtyard, arrange catering, and plan the events of the night.