First 8th Grade Speeches of the 2024-25 School Year!

On Friday, October 4, the first three members of the Class of 2025 presented their 8^th grade speeches to the Buckley community: Joseph A., Ning W-K., and Annabella C.

 

Joe was first at the microphone, delivering a speech framed around his love of baseball and how it has inspired him to work hard and push past failure on his way to success – both on and off the field. He closed by reminding his fellow students, “For any audience members who have something you love, you know that there is no better feeling than achieving something you have worked so hard for. But be aware you will not be successful every time, and during those times, know that it’s OK to fail because you gave it your all.”

 

We heard next from Ning, who spoke about experiencing sunsets in Ireland while visiting her family over the summer. She tied the beauty of a sunset and the time she took to appreciating them to a few life lessons: the importance of creating meaningful rituals for ourselves in our everyday lives outside of working and studying; how the unique beauty of each individual is like a sunset – no two are the same; and, finally, a reminder to take time to appreciate our own achievements, just as we appreciate a sunset. She reminded the audience, “the next time you see a sunset, take time to rest, appreciate your individuality, and celebrate your achievements.”

 

Finally, Bella stepped up to the microphone and shared a speech about the importance memory and family, and how both shape our lives. She spoke about how her father had suffered a medical emergency when she was in first grade and, though it was a tough time, she remembered how her dad had showed up on FaceTime for her first-ever cello recital. Bella recounted how her parents always make time to support her in important moments and celebrate her achievements. She also shared the special relationship she has with her brother, Billy, and though they sometimes annoy each other, as siblings do, their bond is much stronger. She concluded, “Whether they’re full of happiness or sadness, these memories are what define us and create the story of our past. They remind us who we are, and where we’ve come from. So let’s cherish them, as they are the foundation of our journey.”

 

Congratulations to Joe, Ning, and Bella on three outstanding speeches! We commend each one of them on their beautiful writing, confident delivery, and especially their bravery as the first three graduating seniors to present their 8^th grade speeches to the Buckley community. Well done!

 

Click here to check out all the photos from our 8^th grade speeches on Friday, October 4, 2024.