Varnett’s fifth-graders at Southwest Campus showed a wide range of emotions Tuesday as they received their promotion certificates and trophies signifying a job well done Next step is middle school and Dr. Margaret Stroud, Varnett’s superintendent, reminded the 41 students to continue to read during the summer so they don’t lose their edge.
Dozens of parents packed the Southwest Campus cafeteria to witness the ceremony led by Mrs. Alexander, the campus director. Some students were animated in their joy while others shed a few tears as they prepared to bid farewell to Varnett. But, they were reminded, don’t forget to come back and visit.
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The class of 2015 was led by teachers Mr. Del Pilar and Ms. Williams, who posed for pictures with their students after the ceremony. Those in the audience saw performances by kindergarten through 4th graders, who all had messages for the graduating students. From the fourth grade was “Raise Up,” third graders, “Yesterday’s Dream,” second graders, “My Wish for You,” first-graders, “Poem,” and kindergartners, “Tomorrow.”
On the front of the program were the words, “Dream Big,” and the theme of the event was entitled “Hall of Fame.”
Graduating student Adrian Ortiz was one of many students who had a smile on his face. “I’m feeling good because I graduated,” he said after the ceremony. “I get to go to the next grade.” For him, that grade is at Johnston Middle School. He said he learned math, science, how to multiply and reading during his time at Varnett.
Kamyah Williams, another graduating student, also expressed relief.
“I put in a lot of work,” she said. “I was real nervous because I didn’t know if I would pass but I tried really hard.” Kamyah started Varnett as a three-year-old kindergartner and attended the school through the ranks, except the fourth grade. She came back for her final year.
“I have lots of friends and family here,” she said. “The teachers supported me so much.”
Dr. Stroud, in brief remarks to students and family, particularly thanked the teachers for the work they have done with their students. She closed by urging those in attendance to give the teachers a hand. And they did.