Middle schools induct honor society members

More than 300 eighth-graders were recently inducted into the Junior National Honor Society at Grand Avenue and Merrick Avenue middle schools.

In separate ceremonies before the Memorial Day break, the students marched into their respective auditoriums and swore the oath to become members of the prestigious organization.

At Merrick Avenue Middle School, 141 students were sworn in after remarks by Principal Taryn Johnson and honor society supervisor Susan Danis. The evening also featured performances by the school’s wind ensemble under the direction of Richard Gilley. The students performed Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless the USA,” Mozart’s Symphony No. 40 and a medley from the hit TV series “Glee.”

Grand Avenue Middle School swore in 166 new members after hearing opening remarks by Principal Carlo Conte. The school’s chamber orchestra performed “Spring” from Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons” and Bizet’s “Carmen Suite.” Honor Society supervisor Kenneth Abbott conducted the induction ceremony, congratulating the students for their hard work and strong character.

After the ceremonies, receptions were held at both schools for family members and friends of the inductees.