The end of the school year marks the time for moving up ceremonies, field days, and rigorous exams. However, the annual Wantagh Middle School Awards Night is a time to celebrate students who excel in academics, leadership, music/art, clubs, and kindness over the year.

The evening opened with a beautiful performance of the National Anthem sang by 8^th grade student Diana Goncalves followed by a welcome from 6^th grade teachers Ms. Von Bargen and Ms. Zipfel. As students' names were called one by one followed by squeals of excitement by classmates and applause from family, award recipients quickly walked toward the stage to receive their awards. “Tonight is all about recognizing the dedication, growth, and effort that each of our students has shown throughout the school year,” says Ms. Zipfel, 6^th grade teacher.

Students were presented awards from the social studies, English, math, science, world languages, music, library science, physical education, art, and family and consumer sciences departments. Grade level and extracurricular club awards were also presented to deserving students.

New this year to the list of building level awards was the prestigious Principal’s Award presented by Principal Anthony Ciuffo. The award is presented to two students who embody the spirit and the mission of Wantagh Middle School; academic excellence, social skills, self esteem, and a genuine respect and caring attitude for others through a cooperative effort.  Essentially, the true definition of a Caring Warrior! The inaugural Principal’s Award was presented to Mia Rodriguez and Logan Wu.

The night was filled with energy as awards were distributed for the hard work and impact each awardee made during the school year.