I think about the hard work put forth by students and staff in order to get students to this juncture in lives. I think about the many successes our students have achieved - both inside and outside the classroom. Of course, I think about the many joyful and happy times we have shared as a school community.
However, I also think about the many difficult and sad times many in our community have experienced this school year.
All of these emotions are encapsulated in this year’s graduating class.
On the one hand, I am excited for the Gr. 12 students who are about to leave our school and who are prepared to fully extend their wings and make a positive difference in the world. On the other hand, I am a little sad to say "good bye" to the so many awesome young people who we have seen mature and grow into inspiring young adults.
At our annual Graduation Dinner & Dance, I have the distinct pleasure of introducing each member of the class as they enter the ballroom. As I introduced each student, I had a rush of memories. With each student came a different story. I realized that for this class, like the others before them, each person comes to end of high school with an individual story and coinciding journey.
For some the journey is relatively smooth. For others the journey has been extremely bumpy – from turmoil, loss, disappointment and sadness to great joy, laughter and success.
Regardless of the type of journey, as the adults in the school we are privileged to have some insight into each student’s respective journey. To be invited along - so to speak.
This is our greatest responsibility as as a school – to journey together in relationship - as a faith community, in the pursuit of knowledge.
I'm left with a few lingering thoughts & questions:
1. We need to mindful to continue honoring the uniqueness of each individual journey. It really is about taking the time to make true connections.
2. People trump systems. Always.
3. It starts with the adults in the building. They form the "support network" that students depend on.
On the one hand, I am excited for the Gr. 12 students who are about to leave our school and who are prepared to fully extend their wings and make a positive difference in the world. On the other hand, I am a little sad to say "good bye" to the so many awesome young people who we have seen mature and grow into inspiring young adults.
At our annual Graduation Dinner & Dance, I have the distinct pleasure of introducing each member of the class as they enter the ballroom. As I introduced each student, I had a rush of memories. With each student came a different story. I realized that for this class, like the others before them, each person comes to end of high school with an individual story and coinciding journey.
For some the journey is relatively smooth. For others the journey has been extremely bumpy – from turmoil, loss, disappointment and sadness to great joy, laughter and success.
Regardless of the type of journey, as the adults in the school we are privileged to have some insight into each student’s respective journey. To be invited along - so to speak.
This is our greatest responsibility as as a school – to journey together in relationship - as a faith community, in the pursuit of knowledge.
I'm left with a few lingering thoughts & questions:
1. We need to mindful to continue honoring the uniqueness of each individual journey. It really is about taking the time to make true connections.
2. People trump systems. Always.
3. It starts with the adults in the building. They form the "support network" that students depend on.
Hi Johnny,
ReplyDeleteI really liked this post. In fact, I believe that we need to be mindful of people's stories in all aspects of our life - not just school. We need to be mindful of people's stories when we deal with teachers, parents, family, friends, and even strangers.
I'm sure that your students have wonderful memories of their school.
Thanks for sharing and I hope you have a wonderful summer,
Tia
Your three suggestions at the bottom say it all!!!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the post, and to Tia for tweeting it out!
-@JoyKirr
Tia and Joy
ReplyDeleteThanks for the comments. Tia< i agree, the same does hold true in all aspects of life. We just need to take the time to listen and hear "the story".
Cheers