Graduation, Really?

At first it seemed a little ridiculous to me, but I have come to the conclusion that making fifth grade “graduation” a big deal is a very good idea.

When Westwood elementary students transition from fifth to sixth grade, the process includes a year-end graduation and a lot of hoopla. Parents raise money for various gifts, there is a big ceremony, a commemorative tile is created, and of course proper clothing and shoes must be worn.  I mean, seriously, the kids are in fifth grade. What will they expect when they graduate from college?

As I sat watching the “Moving Up” ceremony yesterday at the Sheehan School, it all came together for me. I saw well dressed students who spoke clearly from the stage while thanking teachers, as well as, eye to eye contact when receiving their diplomas with a handshake. There was order and calm made evident by the fact that each student understood the well rehearsed program details that included marching in, sitting down, and listening respectively just to name a few. These are life skills the students need to know.

The 45-minute program included heartfelt words from their principal, Kristen Evans before presenting “diplomas” to each student, a couple of musical scores (which included the Sheehan jazz band), and a PTA thank you to teachers with students presenting flowers. It was a proper ceremony that wasn’t just about the students; it was about acknowledging important adults and having adults return that onto the students.

While all of this was going on, I felt a sense of closure which I’m sure others in the room did as well. I saw pride in the parent’s faces as they rushed to take a snap shot of their child. I noticed our Superintendant, John Antonucci in the audience and Joanne Hadalski, former principal of the Sheehan School. They both made time to be present and take part in this moment. The students were given a proper send off.

This event confirmed for me that a good school system takes into consideration not just academic success and MCAS scores, but equally strives to give students a sense of community, of setting high standards for oneself, of acknowledging and celebrating times of transition. All of which lay the groundwork for future success for these young "graduates".