Eighth Grade Promotion 2019

At the end of each year, the eighth grade class gathers in the Sanctuary in front of peers, families, teachers and administration for promotion to the upper school. This ceremony, an SBS tradition in middle school, is a monumental one. Students are recognized for their leadership and charged to remain steadfast in their faith and stay true to who they are as they launch into upper school.

Much of this year’s ceremony was led by Middle School Representatives Charles Schwinger, Cate Calderon, Ella Ryan and Evan Proctor. In addition, Head of Middle School Ellen Barrett welcomed families and eighth grade Bible teacher Bo Towns closed the ceremony in prayer. However, perhaps the most notable tradition of the ceremony is the SBS alum who served as keynote speaker, Ben Tour ‘13.

Ben is a current student at Rice University and the youngest member of the Tour family who have a lasting legacy at SBS. He spoke with the eighth graders about his time in middle school as an Eagle. Looking back, Ben said, “What matters is who you are in Christ. Our joy comes in knowing Him and making His name known.”

We are excited to see the Class of 2023 do just that!