Congratulations to the Falk Laboratory School Class of 2025, who celebrated their eighth-grade graduation on June 4. Following recent tradition, the ceremony was held at Rodef Shalom Congregation and began with a student procession into the sanctuary. On their way in, students were greeted by several of their teachers, who lined both ramps flanking the stage. 

In her opening remarks, Director Jill Sarada highlighted the Class of 2025’s agency and excitement for learning. Citing Wish #1 for Our Children—to understand that any learning endeavor depends primarily on them—she explained that this year’s graduates were highly dedicated and motivated at Falk, in everything from theater and athletics to language arts and science. 

Next, graduates heard from Eboni Zamani-Gallaher, Renée and Richard Goldman Dean of the University of Pittsburgh School of Education. Dean Gallaher encouraged the eighth-grade class to take care of themselves and others and to do good in the world. “If nothing else,” she shared, “continue to believe in yourself. We certainly believe in you.” 

Graduates and their loved ones enjoyed a student-made “rewind” video highlighting nine years of memories at Falk, followed by a bittersweet slideshow of each student growing up. 

Sarada then welcomed to the stage David Shapira, the 2025 Wonder, Care, Act Alumni Award recipient. To honor Shapira, third-grade students created and presented a handmade sculpture featuring the things they love most about Falk. Afterward, Shapira shared words of wisdom with the students, including a reminder that while we aren’t obligated to succeed in life, we are obligated to never stop trying. 

Finally, for the first time ever, Harsha and Kanchan Rao took the stage to present the Rao Family Student Excellence Award. Each year, the award is presented to a graduating eighth grader who demonstrates artistic and academic talent. The 2025 recipient, Alexander “Sasha” Graman, was nominated by Falk faculty and selected by Dean Gallaher for the honor. “We read the recommendation from your teachers,” Kanchan shared, “and we couldn’t agree more.” 

The members of the Class of 2025 will attend the following high schools in the fall: 

• City of Bridges High School 
• The Ellis School 
• Fox Chapel Area High School  
• Oakland Catholic High School  
• Pittsburgh Allderdice High School 
• Pittsburgh Creative and Performing Arts 6–12 
• Mt. Lebanon High School 
• Scarsdale High School (Scarsdale, NY) 
• Shady Side Academy  
• Westinghouse Arts Academy 
• Winchester Thurston School