Grade 8 Portfolio Night: Rivers Class of 2029 Steps Toward Upper School

Held in Kraft Dining Hall, Portfolio Night centers around three elements: formal presentations, table displays, and informal conversations. Each of the 56 students in the class delivered a 30- to 45-second speech to the audience, highlighting a moment, an accomplishment, or a challenge that shaped their academic identity. Torsten Karlsson ’29, for example, reflected, “One big thing Rivers has taught me throughout Middle School has been to learn and grow from my mistakes,” adding that he will carry that skill with him in the future. Lucy Bowers ’29 spoke about her development of confidence, resilience, and work ethic. “It has been more than just classes and homework,” said Bowers. “School has taught me how to believe in myself, overcome challenges, and work hard.”

Head of Middle School John Bower P’31 shared thoughts on the unique and impressive group of students that make up the Class of 2029. “You have evolved before our very eyes in extraordinary ways,” he said. “You have discovered new talents and strengthened known ones.” He added, “While the portfolio binders around this room are full of reflections on who you are at this point in your life, remember that your journey of self-discovery has only just begun.”

Student display tables filled Kraft Dining Hall, offering a deeper look into each student’s story and identity. Portfolio binders sat alongside curated items of importance and artist statements explaining the personal meaning behind the items—field hockey sticks, an alto saxophone, original artwork, and favorite books. Every student also displayed a custom-designed skateboard, a capstone project from Chris Love’s Grade 8 art class. The colorful and unique skateboards are bold, visual expressions of each student’s interests.

Guests—including parents, fellow students, and professional community members—circulated Kraft Dining Hall, engaging with students about their table displays and the experiences that shaped their time in the Middle School. These informal exchanges brought the displays to life and prompted students to reflect on their growth. 

Additional highlights of the evening included a performance by the Middle School Conservatory Jazz Ensemble—with Danique O’Mensah on alto saxophone, Noah Previtera on trumpet, Maddie Saladino on trombone, Aneesh Goyal on piano, Mike Connors (faculty) on drums, Paris Katsoufis on piano, and faculty coach Bill Jones on bass—and encouraging remarks from featured student speaker Neda Mobed ’29. “At Rivers, it doesn’t matter where you come from, what you look like, or what you’re into,” Mobed said. “The only thing that matters is that you’re a Red Wing, and Red Wings show up for each other.”

Though not a formal graduation, the evening marked a rite of passage, honoring growth and perseverance as the Class of 2029 moves confidently into a new academic chapter. “This moment you’re in—this threshold between middle and high school—is big,” said Bower. “But you are ready.”