Those vassals, having acquitted themselves well as students and squires, were petitioned by their Lords and Ladies to prove themselves worthy of the Knighthood of the Seventh Grade. Enduring trials of intellect, artistry, and bravery was the rite of passage into that most chivalrous and honorable alliance. Hence, for three days, the sixth grade vassals demonstrated their worth in matters of chivalry and brawn—both physical and mental.

They constructed catapults to show their merit as engineers. To prove their architectural ability, they transformed dark Romanesque cathedrals into light and airy Gothic designs. Exhibiting qualities most artistic and precise, the vassals created breathtaking illuminated manuscripts, stained glass windows, and shields rich in symbolism. Finally, so that they might entertain their Lords and Ladies, they proved their worth as dancers and storytellers.

Upon successful completion of those trials, the vassals were welcomed into the esteemed assembly of seventh graders in a show of great pomp and pageantry. They traveled to the enchanted cloisters of Bryn Mawr with their Lords and Ladies, where they were christened the likes of Spencer the Honest and Trustworthy, Noah the Small but Loud, Sydney the Kind and Helpful, and Natalie the Happy and Swift, among others.

And so it was that Shipley’s West Middle School kingdom elevated its newest rank of seventh grade knights. And so it shall be forevermore…