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MANVILLE: 8th-graders set to figure out life’s puzzle

By Mary Ellen Day, Special Writer
Alexander Batcho Intermediate School graduated 105 students on June 19 ending their elementary school years.
Student Hunter Norz began by welcoming everyone to the ceremony in the school gym.
"We are delighted to have you here for this special occasion. Our time here at ABIS has been unforgettable and the friendships we have made will last a lifetime. A last thank you to everyone at ABIS for helping us feel safe, expanding our knowledge of the world around us and, more importantly, for believing in us."
Classmate Melina Campos gave the farewell speech.
"Today we are celebrating the ending to a new beginning," she said. "Not only in this the conclusion to our middle school years, but the foundation which we will build upon for the years to come. The class of 2014 appreciates your presence tonight. It is worth more than all of the riches in the world."
She referred to the years at ABIS as part of a puzzle.
"Our pieces have not been put together and high school will help us out to finish that puzzle," she said. "No one will ever forget the moments we’ve shared together because we’re all one big family. Family is a complicated way to put it, but without each other we wouldn’t be here today."
ABIS Principal Michael Magliacano presented awards to the graduates.
The Outstanding Academic Excellence Award was presented to the students who attained the highest average in each of the academic classes. They were Klaudia Smutek and Novena Petryk-Cordi in language arts; Bartosz Szewczyk and Kayla Molesko in mathematics; Nicole Smutek (science) and Cami Adams (social studies).
Physical education awards were presented to Isaac Alfaro and Vanessa Ramirez and the art award went to Jessica Campos. Andrew Nash received the music award and Antonio McFadden received one for information literacy and technology. Monica Lallkissoon received the award for Spanish.
Cami Adams was presented with the Somerset County Historical Society award for a student who has shown knowledge and interest in history. Melina Campos received an award for service to school and community.
More awards were presented to the graduates for most improved, honor roll, peer mediators, and Circle of Friends.
Students who were honored as members in the Junior National Honor Society were Casey Bolanos, Jessica Campos, Melina Campos, Sarah Hujber, Mary Klein, Carolina Mendoza, Kayla Molesko, Andrea Murillo, Andrew Nash, Novena Petryk-Cordi, Jade Puia, Vanessa Ramirez, Klaudia Smutek, Nicole Smutek, Mariah Retamar, Melany Solis and Bartosz Szewczyk.
Jade Puia, Melina Campos, Shane Honkisz and Ashley Vega were recognized for having perfect attendance during the eighth grade school year. The graduates then sang their class song, "Wake Me Up," by Avicii.
Diplomas were presented as Mary Klein read each of her classmate’s names. When all the diplomas were presented the Class of 2014 processed to music by various artists.