OK....so maybe I did cry....

What wonderful, fun, crazy, busy, fantastic days to end the year on.  8th Grade Project Presentations happened in the afternoon, and students really impressed me.  We've got lots of room to grow as a school, but I am so proud of these pioneers who overcame the challenges of being the first to do something big like this.  It takes a lot of courage and flexibility to be the first, and our 8th graders rose to the challenge!  If parents have pictures you'd like to pass my way, I'd greatly appreciate it.

Graduation was wonderful.  We had two well spoken addresses for commencement, Dr. Erik Nilsen from Lewis and Clark College, and Jenny Cook, our Reading Specialist and the 6/7 teacher the first two years of MRA.  Thank you both for your words of wisdom and for caring so much about our students. 

The ceremony itself was a chance to show our support to the 8s, who now move on to bigger and better things.  We hope they will remember their experiences here at MRA and learn from their time here.  I loved listening to the special songs, watching the picture slide-show, and being able to support each one as you walked across the stage for awards and diplomas. 

To the 8th graders, I wish you all the best in the world as you move on to your new stage of life.  I have absolute faith that you will each take your experiences from MRA and make your next phase of schooling even more powerful, beautiful, challenging, and rewarding.  Come back and visit us when you get a chance.  We’re always here if you need anything.  May your high school years be filled with wonder, exploration, and a deep sense of knowing who you are and who you want to become.

Field Day was. . . well, I don't actually know how Field Day went other than what parents and teachers have told me.  If you spoke to me at all on Monday, you know that I was very sick, and the only reason I made it to school was because I love those 8th graders so stinking much.  Tuesday, while it was my first, last day of school, I was too sick to make it in.  It broke my heart, but I hear that students had a good, crazy, relaxed, interesting last day of school.  I missed all of you so much!

Wednesday through Friday students had off, but I had time to write my reports.  I was even surprised on Thursday by a huge chunk of the class showing up to give me a end of the year present!  It's a beautiful photo book full of memories and letters from each of the thoughtful students in my homeroom.  Big shocker here, but it made me cry.  I was very touched, by the students who put so much time and energy into making something this special for me.  I couldn't have asked for a better group of students to start off my teaching career with.  Thank you, each of you, for making this first year one I will always remember.

I guess that brings us to Summer Break!!  Enjoy it!  I'll post some summer "homework" up next week, but I want each of you to go out and have the most wonderful summer you can.  Be open to new experiences, have fun, be safe, and life up life.  I'll see you in the fall!

with light and love,
Mrs. Nilsen signing off for the 2011 - 2012 school year