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KINDERGARTEN GRADS

On to first grade for small students

June 15 was a day of celebration: The Kindergarten class at St. Mary's Institute in Amsterdam graduated.

Twenty-four small boys and girls walked across the stage in the school gymnasium to receive their diploma from principal Giovanni Virgiglio as parents and other relatives looked on.

"I'm all ready to fight back the tears," said Karen Mowrey before her daughter, Lauren, was one of two Kindergarteners to receive the Perfect Attend-ance Award. Emery Sawitzki was the other.

The ceremony began with a 45-minute slideshow, featuring pictures of the students having fun in and outside of the classroom. After that, the graduating class walked into the gymnasium and up to the stage. 

When they settled into their places, the students prayed the "Our Father" and recited the Pledge of Allegiance.

Seeing the students in their blue caps, Mr. Virgiglio could only say, "My goodness, how fast they grow up!"

The class entertained their families with songs like "Give A Little Whistle" from Walt Disney's "Pinocchio" and the uplifting ballad "Every Move I Make," which has been performed by a number of Christian artists.

After receiving their diplomas and singing the school's alma mater, it was time to celebrate. Tables were set up in the back of the gym with cookies, cupcakes and juice.

"I'm very happy but very hungry," said Thomas Hohenforst, who proceeded to take a few bites of his chocolate cupcake while he also waited in line for a cookie.

Fellow graduate Darren Perez was more concerned about the coming weeks than the food.

"I'm ready for vacation," he told The Evangelist, mentioning his plans to enjoy the summer on his family's boat and in the pool.

It was an exciting time for other relatives, as well. Larry Jordan, who is a member of the St. Mary's school board, was in attendance to watch his grandchild graduate.

"I'm just so proud," he said, beaming. "It's even better than [watching] my children, to be honest!"

Mr. Virgiglio, who pointed up his pride in the school's academic excellence, hoped the day was just another of many successes for the students at St. Mary's.

"We strive for nothing short of our absolute best," he said.

(06/25/09) [[In-content Ad]]

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