Somers Middle School held its eighth-grade graduation ceremony at the school; the event included musical performances, awards presentations and student speeches that referenced the recent loss of an English teacher and a classmate.

Principal (not specified) opened the ceremony, thanking staff, families and facilities workers for preparing the event and welcoming the audience. "Good morning, everyone, and welcome to the Somers Middle School eighth grade graduation ceremony," the principal said.

Superintendent Harry Lefevre addressed the students and families and encouraged graduates to view high school as a fresh set of opportunities. "Eighth graders, it's an honor for me to be here to speak to you today," Lefevre said, noting his office is located at the middle school and praising students' work over the year.

Student speakers Gianna Lopez and Moiz Chaudhry spoke on behalf of the Class of 2025. Lopez's speech traced the three years of middle school and reflected on community and resilience: "We are not who we were when we began, and that is exactly why we are ready to become everything we're meant to be." Chaudhry thanked teachers and families and urged classmates to carry lessons of resilience into high school.

The ceremony included a series of awards presented by school staff. Among the honors: the Trish Valdez Memorial Award, presented in memory of a late English teacher, was awarded to Gianna Lopez. The Westchester branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) presented awards to Catherine Dougmore, Rachel Erman and Sienna Naboa for achievement in math, science or technology. The Tusker awards and numerous departmental certificates (band, chorus, English language arts, family and consumer science, math, orchestra, physical education, science, social studies, technology and world languages) were given to multiple students; presenters named dozens of recipients during the program.

The ceremony concluded with a roll call of graduates and a closing announcement inviting graduates to join their families for photos. The principal introduced Lefevre earlier in the program and thanked staff leaders and administrators for organizing the event.

The program combined musical performances, awards and two student speeches that framed the year as one of perseverance and community support following sorrow and disruption. No formal actions, votes or policy decisions were discussed at the ceremony.