Published July 31. 2025 02:48PM
On May 23, the eighth grade class bid farewell to middle school in style at the annual end-of-year formal.
The dance was held in the school’s cafeteria, which was transformed into a vibrant Enchanted Forest.
Students, dressed in their finest, gathered to celebrate this milestone with friends, classmates, and teachers.
Playing a variety of music from hip-hop to country, the DJ kept everyone going on the dance floor.
A photo booth was set up for students to capture memories and take pictures with friends while refreshments were available to keep energy levels up.
The turnout was impressive.
It was a perfect ending to the year, allowing students to come together and celebrate the memories they’ve made during their time in middle school.
As they prepare to move on to high school, this night will be remembered as a fun part of their educational journey.
These girls were grateful for a chance to rest their feet and sample refreshments. Kendall A., Team Lynx Teachers Amy Giuffrida and Pamela Peters, Kylee M., and Layla S. thank their teachers for putting this dance together for everyone.
The decorations added to the festive atmosphere making it feel like the special celebration it was. Enchanted Forest goers Hailey R., Savannah W.G., Maddie B., and Nova F. took a moment to catch their breath at the back of the dance floor and cool off between songs.
press photos by erica seitherFriends Aubrie G.K., Abby Y., and Cameron Z. pause for a photo.
Cameron P., Cayden L., Calvin K., Asher S., and Noah C. made their way to the photo booth. Once inside, they posed for a photo under the balloon arch entryway leading to the cafeteria turned Enchanted Forest. Decorations lined the hallways from the entrance all the way to the dance space. The photos were mementos they could take home.
Eighteen girls from the Class of 2029 gather for a group photo on a bridge at Ontelaunee Park before their eighth grade class farewell dance at the middle school on May 23.
Fifteen boys from the Class of 2029 gather for a group photo on a bridge at Ontelaunee Park before their eighth grade class farewell dance at the middle school on May 23.
This group of eighth grade girls dressed in their finest dresses gather for a group photo before their farewell dance at Northwestern Middle School. It seemed like almost the entire Class of 2029 met at Ontelaunee Park for photos before the dance. The parking lots were full, and people were spread out snapping pictures all throughout the park. Kids took turns using various beautiful scenic backdrops including this foot bridge over the frog pond by the lower pavilion.
