Elementary School Graduation

The kid was super excited. Waking up an hour early, asking to take a shower in the morning and ready to run out the door with very little prodding - I almost did not recognize her.

What was it that got her going? Elementary school graduation.

After turning in her library books, cleaning out her locker and desk, accumulating over 500 Accelerated Reader points and bidding adieu to her cohorts in crime on student council, battle of the books, geography bee and math, there was on last thing for the kid to do before officially finishing up 4th grade and closing the chapter on elementary school. Graduate. 

Graduation ceremony for 4th grade?

Yup, and there was more than enough pride, accomplishment, support and vision to fill the gymnasium. It was wonderful. As a parent, I figured the ceremony was done for me but after seeing the excitement in my daughter's eyes reflected in the clapping, tears, wOOts, and hugs of every other 4th grader at the school, I realized it was not.

This was for the kids and we were fortunate to have been granted the privilege of watching.

 

  

 

It was just yesterday when we gathered at the daycare center to send her off to kindergarten to enter the elementary school doors for the first time. Flash forward 5 years later as she walks out of the elementary school doors for the last time.

Heading into summer, I think about the fall and those first few days of middle school. I am nervous but know that'll be tempered by the kid's excitement, attitude, confidence and strength. She'll shine and because of her, I will too.