Honoring the Graduates

My youngest child, Luke, graduates from high school today.  As my family prepares for the ceremony, I would like to take this opportunity to extend congratulations to all of this year’s graduates.  Their achievements are numerous and they deserve our recognition as they head out into the world, prepared to wrestle with life’s challenges. These are our students!  Long after they have moved on, their names linger in our memories.  These are the children who made us laugh, who made us question ourselves, and who made us proud to be in the teaching profession.

Standing silently beside each graduate is a teacher who cared enough to set high expectations, who never gave up, and who found a way to reach every child.  My son has had superb teachers who encouraged him to develop his intellect and character.  I thank each of them for their special contributions to his life, from kindergarten through twelfth grade.  One teacher in particular, Georgia Smith, helped my son see himself as a unique individual with much to communicate through his artwork.  Georgia is an elementary art teacher whose positive and insightful outlook creates a safe and nurturing learning environment for all students.  Thank you, Georgia, for all you have done for my children over the years,

When Luke and his classmates receive applause tonight, we will also be paying tribute to all of the educators who have made a difference in the lives of our children.   

Diane Jaquith
Burr School
Newton, MA
didij@aol.com