School's Out for Summer

"Moving on is simple.  It's what we leave behind that's hard."

I am not a big fan of the last day of school.  The teachers that I have most admired and aspire to emulate are those who make a strong commitment not only to the organizational goals of a school but also to families and community, realizing that they are an integral part of a much larger education of children.  So much energy goes in to this approach to teaching.....creating a classroom community, getting to know children as individuals - both academically and personally, integrating academic studies with community life, etc.  It's difficult to cut those ties just because the calendar turns to summer.  

Leavers Service at church

So, while I look forward to summer vacation - spending time with family and the chance to recharge my batteries for a new year of students - I find it hard to let go of children I've shared a year with.  This year the end of school was particularly difficult, knowing that in all likelihood I will not see these children again. Fortunately, the last week of school was full of parties and revelry to ease the pain of saying goodbye!

Invitation from my class

The first event was a Friday night staff barbecue hosted by the Bliss School Governors. It was fun to celebrate with colleagues and I had great conversations with some of the Bliss Governors about my experiences during the year.  Monday morning I was greeted with an invitation from my class to a surprise tea that afternoon.  It was a great opportunity to thank the wonderful parents in my classroom community.  I realize it was a leap of faith on their part to agree to having an American teacher for their children, and I appreciate the support they've given me all year.

What's a party without cake?!?!

"Friendship.....is not something you learn in school. But if you haven't learned the meaning of friendship, you really haven't learned anything."  ~ Muhammad Ali

Invitation to "The Prom"

The year 6 students are called "leavers", since they are leaving Bliss to go on to secondary school.  Because I was also transitioning, I became a "leaver" as well.  There was a Leavers' service at the church, a Leavers' Prom and a final Leavers' assembly.

Mr. Scanlan, headteacher, making an opening speech at The Prom

 The Leavers' Prom was a formal dress event that began with parents in attendance.  Unique awards were given to every student for personal talents or interests.  I'm pleased to say that I was recognized with an honorary British citizenship, which I will display proudly at home!

Dinner in the hall for The Prom

 After the speeches and awards parents left and the party began!  Dinner was followed by casino games and then dancing.  Everyone - kids and adults - had a fantastic time!

My "mocktail" and casino chips!

Proud recipient of a "Honorary British Citizen" award

Let the dancing begin!

The last day of school began with a before-school disco for the year 6 students in my classroom. Every Friday I have begun the day with "dance Friday".....an opportunity for us to celebrate the end of the week with a little music.  The year 6 students usually come in before school and then my own class gets a chance to boogie after the bell.  A nice tradition, and a fun way to start the last day of school. 

Last day American Disco

On Friday the playlist was specifically American:  "Party in the USA", "Born in the USA", "Young American" and "Surfin' USA".  Classic!  


Fortunately there are no photographs of the Leavers' Assembly Friday afternoon. It was beautiful and moving, with many lovely traditions.  As I joined the students singing the official Leavers' song, "As We Go Now", it was a time for tears......I've printed the lyrics below because the sentiment is beautiful, but it can't compare to hearing it with the bagpipes and the children!  


As We Go Now 
As we go now from this moment,  
as we leave behind our time together. 
May we walk with one another,  
may we help each other on the way. 
As we go now from this moment,  
as we go into the future together. 
May we treasure one another,  
may we realize how precious we are. 
May we realize how precious we are. 
May we realize how precious we are. 


Words and music: Stephen Fischbacher. 
Copyright © Fischy Music.