Kelley School held its final, and upbeat PRIDE Assembly of the school year June 5th, that brought students and staff together in a joyful, talent-filled morning that blended the arts, school spirit, and meaningful recognition.
To view the designed article with photos from the event, visit: https://5il.co/3iee6
Even Fox, the school’s mascot made a cameo appearance to the delight of students.
The assembly featured select performances from the school’s 4th and 5th Grade Band, 3rd, 4th, and 5th Grade Chorus, and the Bucket Brigade, offering a lively preview of that evening’s Spring Concert.
A highlight of the musical selections was the unveiling of a gigantic American flag owned by the Newark Elks Lodge #1249 as the 5th Grade Band played “American Fantasy” a compilation of “America” and America the Beautiful.”
In addition to the musical performances, student artwork was on display outside the auditorium showcasing the creativity and hard work of Kelley learners across all grade levels that would be on display that evening during the Spring Celebration of the Arts — an event that honors the creativity and talent of Kelley students.
As part of the school’s ongoing PRIDE initiative, students were recognized for demonstrating positive behavior. This monthly tradition has become a cornerstone of the school’s efforts to build a positive, inclusive, and respectful learning environment.
Adding excitement to the event was a surprise appearance by players from the Newark Pilots _ Starting Right-Handed Pitcher Ian Goodness and starting Catcher and Clean-up hitter Noah Brooks, who joined the assembly to help with a special school-wide moment—the live selection of the ceremonial first pitchers for Kelley’s upcoming field trip June 10th to a Newark Pilots game.
The selection of the student and teacher ceremonial first pitchers was designed to celebrate both positive student behavior and staff morale.
Student Pitcher Selection:
Fifth grade students had the opportunity to earn a chance at the honor by placing their PRIDE tickets into a designated “Pitch Bucket.” Newark Pilots starting catcher Noah Brooks randomly selected Gigi Sanon as the student representative to throw out the ceremonial first pitch at the June 10 game.
Teacher Pitcher Selection:
Teachers’ names were entered into the selection process based on their participation in the school’s shout-out system, which recognizes colleagues for going above and beyond. Two randomizer wheels were used—one containing the names of staff who had sent shout-outs, and one with names of those who had received them.
Newark Pilots Starting Pitcher Ian Goodness spun both wheels live during the assembly.
· Fourth grade Special Education teacher Ashley Reome (sender) was paired with Noah Brooks as Team Brooks/Reome
· Fourth Grade teacher Kristin Ferreri (receiver) was paired with Ian Goodness as Team Goodness/Ferreri
In true Kelley School fashion, the final selection came down to a vote by student applause. Ferreri was selected as the winning teacher and will represent Kelley School on the field alongside Gigi Sanon during the ceremonial first pitches.