By:Brian Shappell
Nearly every school marks the end of the year with some form of a senior week for its graduating students — the Cranbury School was no exception.
Facing the usual, end of the year pressures of final exams and papers was not much of an issue for the eighth-graders as they finished most of their work a week ago. Instead, these soon-to-be high-schoolers were having picnics, dances, graduation practice and, of course, the time-honored tradition of yearbook signing.
“We just basically did whatever,” said Class Treasurer Kevin Golisano. “It was good not getting any homework.”
The first big event for the week was the annual Eighth Grade Dance. This year the parents set up an Oscars 2000 theme. Students in tuxedo or gowns arrived to full celebrity treatment with a red carpet, faux-interviewers as the students walked toward the cafeteria, and even a giant Oscar on premises.
“The Eighth Grade Dance was amazing,” Class Secretary Amanda Talbi. “The red carpet and, interview and huge, cardboard Oscar were great.”
The graduate picnic also proved popular with students. About 60 students attended the event, held at the Handel residence, for a day of swimming, volleyball, basketball and barbecuing.
“I had a lot of fun at the picnic,” Matt said. “We were only missing a couple of kids.”
Still, the students have had class during the week. But instead of learning about math and science, they were concentrating on writing and public speaking skills — sort of — through their yearbook signings and graduation practices. During the ceremony, each student will have to deliver a quote.
And graduation week would be far from complete without talk of their respective futures at Princeton High School or various private schools.
“It’s great to be moving on after nine years at the Cranbury School,” said Amanda. “It’s exciting to be four years closer to my future.”
One Cranbury School student who won’t be making his way to PHS is Class President James Faraci. James will attend The Lawrenceville School this fall.
“I’m going to miss my friends here,” James said. “I had fun in my times at the Cranbury School.”
Though these students are going through an exciting period, they are not easily going to forget their old stomping grounds.
“I’m looking forward to a new beginning, but I’ll miss Cranbury, too,” Matt said.

