More than 100 friends and family members turned out for UT Elementary School’s annual Advancement Ceremony to celebrate the school’s fifth-grade students’ transition to middle school.
Fifth-grade teachers Michelle Grona and Nicole Hershey shared highlights from the year, including memorable moments from Outdoor School, a misplaced phone and the class’s running inside joke, “six-seven,” which drew laughter from students and parents alike.
The event also recognized UT Elementary alumni. Members of the UTES Class of 2019 — one of the first prekindergarten classes taught by retired UT Elementary teacher and administrator Melissa Garcia — returned to participate in the school’s traditional Senior Walk. Garcia, who taught the group before they could read, said, “Watching them grow from curious, energetic Pre-K students into confident high school graduates has been incredibly rewarding. Being part of their journey from the very beginning makes this milestone especially meaningful, and I couldn’t be prouder of all they’ve accomplished.”
Twenty-one graduating seniors crossed the stage and shared their post-graduation plans, which range from military service to attending the University of Texas at Austin.
Four alumni from the UT Elementary Class of 2015 — Mariah Garza, Jasmin King, Maricarmen Marquez and Wynter Winston — all earned bachelor’s degrees from UT Austin this year. During the ceremony, King and Winston addressed the fifth graders, reflecting on how their experiences at UT Elementary influenced the paths they took.
Another key moment of the evening was the presentation of the school’s Lone Star Award, an annual recognition of outstanding community support. This year’s honor went to the Texas Cowboys. The UT service organization has built a consistent presence and enthusiastic student fan base at the school through mentorship, volunteering and campus visits.
“The Texas Cowboys hold a very special place in the hearts of our Little Longhorns. The excitement on our students’ faces when they see the Cowboys walk onto campus says everything. They are role models who show our students what it means to lead through service, kindness and connection. We are incredibly grateful for the time, energy and love they continue to pour into our school community.” Dr. Lara Wilder, UT Elementary principal.
The ceremony concluded with a longstanding tradition: the fifth graders’ annual dance performance—a finale that drew applause, laughter and some well-earned tears.