Garfield Middle School graduation features theatrical twist with flash mob

GARFIELD — The eighth graders at Garfield Middle School had just finished walking down the gym's aisle in anticipation of a regular graduation. However, this ceremony was about to get a bit more exciting and theatrical.

The students and their families were surprised with a dance routine from the national dance champions at Ramapo College.

The dancers were disguised as fellow graduates, but after a brief announcement from faculty, they surrounded the gymnasium and threw off their gowns to reveal Ramapo dancing uniforms. They performed a hip-hop routine to Post Malone's hit song "Congratulations." The team recently placed first in Division III for the hip-hop category at the National Dance Alliance, and the moves at Garfield Middle School proved why.

Along with a flash mob, the middle schoolers were treated to a live DJ and music from the band After Party. The ceremony was followed by normal program events, including speeches from administrators, bestowing awards and the Garfield Middle School band playing "Don't Stop Believin.'"

Vice Principal Amy Sabani said the moving-up ceremony has a twist every year but never a flash mob before. This year's idea was introduced by Principal Richard Rigoglioso, who likes the event to be a memorable experience rather than a formality, Sabani said.

"Graduates and families tend to remember their high school graduation or college graduation to be hot, long and boring," Sabani said. "We certainly did not want that."

Sabani reached out to a friend whose daughter is on the Ramapo dance team to see if the group was interested in performing at Garfield Middle School. Ramapo's head dance coach, Valentina DeSantis, heard the proposal and agreed.

DJ Rahson Morrison, a Garfield Middle School grad, curated the remix that would be incorporated into the dancers' performance. Sabani said after the team got the music, it was able to perfect a routine in one day.

"When preparing for an event that hosts over 1,200 people, there are a lot of moving parts. It would not have been possible if everyone didn't pitch in," Sabani said. "We are truly grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such amazing educators and a staff that always goes above and beyond for the students of Garfield."

Sabani said Rigoglioso and those involved in the ceremony are looking forward to unique and exciting surprises for the coming years. Whatever twist Rigoglioso suggests, Garfield students can expect an uncommon closure to their middle school chapter.