End of the 08-09 School Year

I guess before I begin writing about this year, I had better finish up writing about last year. I was planning on finishing up my blog for the 08-09 school year this summer and never got around to it, so here it is.

The graduation ceremony for Sonlight was planned out like any other. The main difference was only the size of the class. We had eighteen seniors, so as you can imagine, the list was short. In any case, we had gowns for them all, we had decorated the church, put up a backdrop behind the church's stage, and had the diplomas stacked up on a table ready to be passed out. It may seem strange, but to add to the decoration, we had a kid from the neighborhood (who is incredible at creating models out of cardboard) make a replica of our school. He spent a few weeks on the project, and we displayed it on a table in front of the entrance to the church. It looks identical to the school. It was so detailed that you could look inside the school and see stairs, doors to classrooms and lights as well. Below is a picture of the model. If you have never been here, this is exactly what the school looks like.



The ceremony started at about 4PM with many parents and siblings showing up. At the door and within the isles we had the juniors working as ushers. They ate it up. Mostly, it is fun for them because they all come dressed up and they get to play a part within the ceremony.

For me, it was great to see my first Sonlight graduation and to know that I played a small part in their achievement. Also, not only did I get to see a Sonlight graduation ceremony I also got to see the Sonlight Bible College's first ever graduating class the following night. The best part of the graduation for me was to hear the students' speeches. There were a few speeches from the seniors that were very moving. Those who spoke showed great appreciation for their education and the love they have received from the teachers here over the years. Those moments make all the extra effort worth it.

It is going to be strange not seeing the seniors again. I know there may be a few here that I will see, but for the most part, I know they are moving on and that I may never see them again. It is difficult in one way, but joyful in the other knowing that they are better prepared for this world and that not only did they get a good education, but they also learned about Christ and it shows in many of them in their selfless ways.