Moving on Up…..
“Many schools do moving up days, but ours has a special twist----we send our 8th graders off to college!” explains All Saints Head of School Steven Virgadamo.
“Eighth grade might seem a little early for a college tour, but at All Saints Catholic School, we believe it’s never too soon to spark big dreams. Our motto, “College and Heaven,” comes to life each year during our annual "Moving Up Day," where every student gets a taste of what’s next in their educational journey—and our 8th graders take an unforgettable leap straight into the collegiate world,” says Virgadamo.
For the youngest learners, Moving Up Day is an exciting opportunity to step into the next chapter of their educational journey. The littlest students in PK4 get to experience kindergarten, where they enjoy storytime, explore new learning centers, or practice early writing skills. These small steps ignite their curiosity and enthusiasm for the world of learning ahead.
“Just when everyone starts to feel a little tired, a little bit stuck in the March doldrums, we plan a fantastic day of discovery and fun for our students,” says Linda Dunn, principal of All Saints Catholic School in Norwalk.
As students’ progress through the grades, the excitement continues to build.
Each student spends time in the classroom they’ll be joining next year, meeting their future teachers, engaging with new peers, and experiencing a snapshot of the curriculum and activities they can look forward to. This day is carefully designed to ignite curiosity, ease transitions, and foster a sense of excitement about the growth that lies ahead.
"The classroom visits on Moving Up Day spark so much excitement for the year ahead," said Principal Linda Dunn. "Students feel a sense of confidence as they see what’s next and realize they are ready to take on new challenges."
Teachers create engaging lessons and activities that showcase what makes each grade unique. The joy and anticipation are palpable as students explore new classrooms, meet new friends, and imagine themselves thriving in the next grade.
8th Graders Head to Campus
While our younger students are exploring their next steps within All Saints, our 8th graders take a monumental leap: they go to college. This year, the Class of 2025 will visit Sacred Heart University, a Catholic institution that exemplifies the values of faith and academic excellence we instill in our students.
The day begins with attending Mass in the university chapel. Surrounded by the beauty of sacred art and architecture, our 8th graders experience the profound connection between faith and education.
After Mass, students enjoy a guided campus tour, where students marvel at the state-of-the-art facilities, modern classrooms, and vibrant student life. They learn about Sacred Heart’s diverse programs, the importance of a liberal arts education, and how a Catholic university integrates faith into its mission.
The morning ends with lunch in the university dining hall. This part of the visit is not just fun; it’s a tangible reminder that their journey from All Saints to high school and beyond is filled with exciting opportunities and new experiences.
For these 8th graders, Moving Up Day is more than a field trip—it’s a chance to see a future that aligns with their dreams and aspirations. The visit also reinforces the idea that “college and heaven” are not mutually exclusive goals. By experiencing the integration of academics and faith in a collegiate setting, students are inspired to continue their journey as lifelong learners and faithful stewards of their gifts. They see firsthand that a Catholic education extends far beyond the classroom, shaping individuals who are prepared to make a positive impact on the world.
Moving Up Day fosters the integral Formation of scholars - academic formation, human formation, spiritual and apostolic formation
Moving Up Day is an integral part of our school’s commitment to nurturing confidence, curiosity, and a sense of community. For PK3 through 7th grade students, the day fosters excitement about what lies ahead and helps them feel more prepared for the transition to a new grade level. By the time they reach 8th grade, they are equipped with the courage and faith to take on new challenges, whether it’s starting high school or envisioning their future in higher education. Virgadamo explains that Moving Up Day blends academic preparation, spiritual formation and also benefits scholars emotionally as it builds confidence and encourages scholars to embrace lifelong learning. He reminds scholars on Moving Up Day that life at All Saints is a first step on their pathway to college and the stairway to heaven.
The excitement and inspiration generated by Moving Up Day ripples through the school community. Teachers reflect on the joy of introducing students to the possibilities of the next grade, while students share stories of their adventures with friends and family. For our 8th graders, the Sacred Heart visit becomes a cherished memory and a source of motivation as they prepare for high school and beyond.
We can’t wait for March to watch them all move on up!
- news