FBRA graduation ceremonies are unique in that each graduating 8th grader addresses the audience, in contrast to having a valedictorian deliver the class address. The ceremonies offer a special time for our community to celebrate the achievements of our graduating 8th graders, to reflect upon the impact of three years in our program, and for some students, to literally jump in the river! Please enjoy photo galleries and speech excerpts from each of our program graduation ceremonies.
Girls Program Graduation
It was a beautiful evening Thursday, May 30, 2024 to honor the 2024 Girls Program graduates and celebrate this memorable milestone with families and friends. We are so proud of these wonderful young women and wish them much success as they head into high school. Go get ’em, Salamanders! Evening program linked here.
Girls Speech Excerpts
My mistakes don’t define who I am, and as FBRA has taught me, I am destined to fail occasionally and that is ok. It is what I do after failure, which is pick myself back up with determination and courage, that really matters.
Josie, Class of 2024
At FBRA I realized I have the power to be who I want to be, act how I want to act, and do what I want to do. FBRA gave me chances and opportunities to grow into who I want to be: a person with curiosity, kindness, and courage.
Harper, Class of 2024
In my 3 years at FBRA, I have grown braver every day – evolving from fearful kid to fearlessly paddling class 4 rapids, skiing down black slopes, and adventuring for 9 days in a foreign country.
VirginiaMay, Class of 2024
Boys Program Graduation
Middle school ended with a splash on Friday, May 31, 2024 for members of the Boys Program Class of 2024. Teachers, families and friends gathered to celebrate the students and their accomplishments. There were speeches and performances, laughs and tears, and sharing of favorite memories and plans for the future. The evening ended with a beloved FBRA tradition as graduates plunged into the French Broad River. What a night! Evening program linked here.
Boys Speech Excerpts
“You should try the hard climb. Take the hard line on whatever river you’re running. You should try the food. You should play the instrument. You should lead the assembly. You should get out there and do the things you aren’t comfortable doing.”
Hampton, Class of 2024
“FBRA has taught me that in order to become the best person that you can, you first have to understand that there is always something more to learn in life.”
Noah, Class of 2024
“To the younger salamanders, I say ‘Be courageous and try new things. Take risks while managing danger. And if there is a choice or a challenge, you should take the challenge.’”
Vir, Class of 2024