JACKSON – Graduation always signifies the end of an era, but this year’s commencement service at the township’s two high schools was more impactful than others as it noted the district’s last graduation at those buildings – and with those names.
Superintendent Nicole Pormilli addressed the graduates, families, faculty and many other honored guests during Jackson Memorial High School’s recent commencement ceremony.
“It is a privilege to stand before you today on one of the most significant milestones in a young person’s life – high school graduation. To the Class of 2025: congratulations! You’ve made it!”
She noted that this occasion was a “day of joy, of pride, and of reflection. As we look out at this incredible group of graduates, we see much more than caps and gowns. We see young adults who have grown through challenges, found their voices, and discovered their passions.”
Pormilli told the graduates, “You have navigated tests, deadlines, extracurriculars, friendships, and – for many of you – unexpected obstacles that required flexibility and courage. Some of you thrived in sports, the arts, STEM, or leadership.”
“Some of you found your strength in quieter places – in perseverance, in helping others, in showing up every single day. Every path here was different, but they all led to this moment. High school isn’t just about what you learn in books. It’s about learning who you are and what matters to you. And that journey doesn’t end here – it continues and evolves,” she added.
Pormilli further noted, “as you step into this next chapter – whether it’s college, a trade, the workforce, the military, or a path uniquely your own – I encourage you to carry three things with you:
“Curiosity: Keep learning. Not just facts, but about people, places, ideas. Ask questions. Seek to understand.
“Courage: Life will ask you to take risks. Say yes to opportunities, even when they scare you. Especially when they scare you.
“Character: The world needs not just bright minds, but kind ones. Be the person who lifts others, who leads with empathy, who assumes best intentions and who chooses integrity even when it’s hard.”
The superintendent also thanked the families and educators in the audience. “Your guidance, support, and belief in these graduates have helped make this day possible. Your investment in their futures is a gift that will ripple far beyond today.”
“Graduates, Jackson Memorial High School has been more than a building. It has been a second home. It has seen rigorous learning and laughter in classrooms, cheers from bleachers, quiet study sessions, meaningful conversations, hallway friendships, and once-in-a-lifetime memories. It has shaped lives – and it has shaped yours,” she said.
Pormilli remarked, “you now carry its story forward. You are the final chapter for Jackson Memorial High School – but you are not the end of the story. Because what happens next… is you! You are the living legacy of this school. Every time you strive for excellence, show compassion, take a risk, or lift someone up – you carry Jackson Memorial with you.”
The superintendent added, “Graduates, your story is just beginning. Write it boldly. Live it with purpose and never forget where you came from – your school, your community, and the people who helped shape you,” Pormilli told the final graduating class. “We are so proud of you. We believe in you and we cannot wait to see what you will do next. Congratulations, Class of 2025!”
The School District continues to undergo a required realignment which brings a number of changes and several school closures and renaming of buildings.
The Sylvia Rosenauer School closed permanently after the 2023-24 school year. The Christa McAuliffe Middle School recently closed following the current 2024-25 school year and will be sold or rented.
Grade Level Reconfiguration
Elementary schools (five schools) will now serve grades K-4. Grades 5 and 6 will be housed in the former Carl Goetz Middle School building, now called Jackson Township 5-6 School.
Grades 7 and 8 will attend Jackson Township Middle School, located in the former Jackson Memorial High School complex, which also includes a Preschool Annex.
Grades 9 through 12 will attend the single combined high school, Jackson Township High School, based at the former Jackson Liberty High School site.
Jackson Memorial High School and Jackson Liberty High School have merged into Jackson Township High School and the new mascot will be the Jaguar, and the colors will be red, black, and gray/silver.
Realignment Reasons
The restructuring is due to decreased state aid and declining student enrollment, which created a budget deficit. The high school merger aims to maintain special programs and ensure equitable opportunities for students.
Board of Education members approved the plan for the 2025-2026 school year and remains focused on supporting staff and students during the transition. The district has filed a lawsuit against the state regarding funding inequities.
