Jack had his last day of 2nd grade and Ella her last day of 4th grade on June 10th. We’re so grateful for our incredible school, the amazing teachers both kids have had, and, of course, for our two great students. Ella and Jack both had truly stellar academic years—honor roll, recognized for high reading goals, and pulled into talent development and accelerated programs—but, more importantly, they continue to show a love for school. Teachers, friends, most subjects (Jack’s a star at literacy and Ella at math—they both do well at all subjects but Ella says she isn’t big on science and Jack wishes he didn’t have to explain how he got to his math answers), specials (especially Art, P.E., and Music), and recess, they both have a joy for their time at school. I will say, however, that they were pretty darn excited about summer, too. :)
Jack’s first day of 2nd grade and last day of 2nd grade. His smile looks like a bigger kid’s by the end of the year (finally lost those top front baby teeth), but—thankfully—he’s still my little boy. Those sneaks sure looked good at the beginning of the year—they made it to the end, but just barely.
Ella’s first day of 4th grade and last day of 4th grade. Ella has definitely matured over this past school year. You can see it in her posture here—she’s becoming such a strong, confident, and amazing young lady. Can’t believe we’re headed into her last year of elementary school next year! Oh, and big 4th graders didn’t have to bring their backpacks to school on the last day. They were basically done with school after they completed their EOGs over a week earlier.
A week before the last day of school Ella showed just how confident she is. Her class had an “Academy Awards” ceremony in conjunction with their EOY Party where each student was presented with an award and all parents were invited. Ella received the ‘Best Artist’ award from her fellow students. Between every few awards, students were given the option to perform any type of skit or musical performance they’d like. Ella sang a mash-up of Katy Perry songs and other popular songs—the mash-up created by the 3 girls and choreographed by them, too—and she was often the lead singer, singing solo in front of the whole crowd of parents and students. I was so impressed, first of all with their performance and its creativity, but mostly by her confidence.