Last Saturday, June 8, the eighth grade Class of 2024 celebrated the completion of their final year at WSL and the beginning of new adventures. The graduation was held in the Auditorium with their Class Teacher, Joseph O’Donnell, Subject Teachers, other faculty and staff, as well as family and friends. 

Jade Rose Jones and Pieter Wetzel were the Student Hosts and the program included members of the class speaking of some of their dearest and fondest memories of the years spent here at WSL. There were also student performances, both solo and ensemble, selected by the students.

Sienna DeBurro ‘20 was the alumni speaker. Looking back from a short distance—from the other side of High School and ahead towards her Freshman year at NYU—she shared thoughts and gratitude for the many gifts and memories she received during her time as a WSL student. She encouraged the graduates to step into their journey knowing they can advocate for themselves and create community around them. She spoke of valuing their Waldorf roots and believing in their own strengths and abilities. View Sienna’s full speech.

Michael Ballard, the parent speaker, submitted to the graduating class four rules he wished them to live by: Honor the Struggle by Dancing in the Rain, Lean into the Cold Water of Hard Things, Cultivate a Garden of Gratitude and lastly, Have Courage – to do what’s right, even when no one is watching; to be an advocate and ally for others, and to pursue their dreams. View Michael’s full speech.

Joseph O’Donnell, the class teacher, joined this class two years ago, and when taking his place at the podium, spoke first of the deep appreciation and gratitude he holds for the student’s previous class teachers. He talked of the tenderness and sorrow of endings and the role of a teacher to launch the class and let go. He also spoke of new beginnings and the profound hope that working with this class gives him for a brighter future. View Joseph’s full speech.

The subject teachers presented the poem A Personal Quest by Patricia A. Fleming, a beautiful and meaningful poem, offering tools of self-awareness and self-compassion.

Tom Trigg, Head of School, and Kat Williams, Vice President of the Board of Trustees, presented the diplomas and gifts.

A reception was held in the Horseshoe following the ceremony. Thanks enormously for the support of Joseph O’Donnell, Tom Trigg, Kat Williams, Kim Ayan, Paul Menz, Betsy Peck, faculty and student musicians, the eighth grade parents and guardians, parent volunteers, and many others for all the help behind the scenes.

We are so very proud of this graduating class. We wish you all the best and welcome you into our alumni community!

Graduation Photos of the Class of 2024:

Before Ceremony Photos l Graduation Ceremony Photos l Graduation Reception Photos