A Child’s Eyes At Graduation

[williamjackson]

A Child’s Eyes At Graduation
by William Jackson, M.Ed.
Andrew Robinson Elementary School
DuvalSchools.org/ARE

The graduating class of 2013 shared with family and friends
a time of wonderment, excitement, astonishment, fun and pride.
The attending families shared in the accomplishments of the
graduating fifth graders from Andrew Robinson Elementary School.
Looking into the eyes of these youth, seen is the excitement and
anticipation of what the evening will present.

The multipurpose room of this Magnet School that is one of the first
STEAM schools â€" Science Technology Engineering Arts Mathematics
was filled with emotional electricity as the students presented various
talents and abilities that represented part of their accomplishments in
earning their matriculation to middle school and continued academic
achievements.

The graduating fifth graders are empowered with the best possible
teaching that will carry them to their ultimate goals of graduating
from high school. The students are prepared for the rigors and
challenges of middle school and onward to earning the accomplishment
of a high school diploma.

The ceremony was MC’d by Jeremiah Burton and Angelica Leach fifth
grade students that show leadership and academic success.
Leaders and role models of success, accomplishment and maturity.
The graduation ceremony contained talents ranging from poetry,
song, oratory ability and even incorporated multiple awards that
highlighted the academic and social growth and maturity of the
students. The audience of parents, family members and friends were
treated to a level of scholarly excellence that shows the empowerment
of education.

The honored speaker Mr. Julian Davenport, Director of Elementary Data
and Assessment of Duval County Public School reflected on his past
academic journey correlating to the journey many of the students
graduating may experience. Mr. Davenport shared the value of education
and its ability to make  powerful students skills and take students anywhere
their imagination will take them. The theme of Andrew Robinson is
“College Preparation” this easily tied into the depth and purpose of
Mr. Davenports sharing of how students should have the desire to obtain
a college education. To fulfill their dreams and empower their talents and
abilities, not allowing the lack of education to keep them from their goals
and aspirations in life.

At the conclusion of the ceremony two students received the highest
awards presented by Principal Crystal Lewis: Jaiden Session and Donovan
Randall received the Principal’s award for their academic accomplishment
as well as their consistant respect towards teachers, staff and their peers.
The conclusion of the ceremony invited all to refreshments and pictures. 

[Overstreet]

Why are we now "graduating" from the 5th grade? .....Preschool? ......etc.

It seems that were putting too much emphasis on lower grade promotions.  Graduation from High School, Trade School, College, and other secondary education has more significance.   

[Debbie Thompson]

I kind of agree, but to the kids, it's a big deal. And that's what schools are about...the kids.

[I-10east]

Why are we now "graduating" from the 5th grade? .....Preschool? ......etc.

I totally agree. Maybe I'm just too old school with certain things, but I'm not feeling these extra lower grade graduations. Why don't they just go ahead and set it up so that every grade gets to graduate? Fourteen of them (including preschool, and kindergarten), why not? It almost remind me of the "no ones a loser, everyone wins" mentality with young kids in sports so no one's feelings are hurt; That was just a loose comparison, so no need to go all apesh*t on me LOL.

[simms3]

I "graduated" from 6th grade and it was a big deal at the time.

[williamjackson]

The graduation process provides a feeling of accomplishment.
As each student matriculates from one level to another they should be celebrated.

The unfortunate aspect is that closer they get to high school their accomplishments are
"less" celebrated and this maybe why so many kids are un-happy in school and with the
educational process.

Think about it, kids love to be recognized, celebrated and made to feel special. If we did
more of it maybe more kids would graduate, excel not just in school, but life.

Just my twenty cents.. : )