Old Trail School Honors and Bids Farewell to the Class of 2025

On June 5, the Old Trail School community gathered in celebration of a remarkable milestone—the graduation of the Class of 2025. Held indoors this year due to inclement weather, the ceremony nevertheless radiated warmth, joy and school spirit. Friends, families, faculty and staff came together to honor this close-knit and spirited group of eighth graders, whose journeys through Old Trail have been defined by character, compassion and a deep sense of connection.

Following the invocation by Rev. Ron Fowler II of Arlington Church of God, Head of School Sarah Johnston took the podium to warmly welcome attendees. In her remarks, Johnston spoke with admiration about the Class of 2025’s resilience, their curiosity, and the impact they’ve made on the school community. She highlighted their ability to lead with empathy and integrity, to support one another through challenges, and to embrace growth with enthusiasm.

One of the most heartfelt moments of the ceremony came from eighth-grade speaker Penelope Vrobel. Representing her class, Penelope reflected on the many moments—both big and small—that defined their shared journey: from joyful Lower School memories to late nights preparing for projects, to inside jokes, class traditions, and the unwavering support of teachers and friends. Her speech captured the emotional richness of the Old Trail experience and painted a vivid portrait of a class bound by friendship, laughter and mutual respect.

In addition to the celebration of every graduate, several members of the Class of 2025 were honored with awards that recognized their outstanding contributions, character and academic achievement:

• High Academic Honors – Amelia Gradisar & Chloe Wang

• Brian Giancarli ’77 Award — Alex Flauto

• Service Award — Leela Murthy & Matthew Murray

• Headmaster’s Spirit Award — Hilty Deuble & Noah Markarian

• Alumni Award — Charlie Kinney & Penelope Vrobel

Each award reflected the values that define the Old Trail experience—academic excellence, community engagement, empathy and school spirit.

As each graduate received their diploma, the audience celebrated not only academic achievement but the individuality and personal growth of every student. Faculty members, many of whom have known these students since early childhood, watched with pride as they crossed the stage—ready to take the next step in their academic and personal lives.

Congratulations to the Class of 2025. Your time at Old Trail has shaped you into thoughtful leaders, lifelong learners and kindhearted friends. We can't wait to see where your journey takes you next!