It was a touching ceremony this evening as Ocean “graduated” from grade 5. In our school, grade 5 marks the end of the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme. She will be not only leaving elementary school, but she is also leaving the Osaka International School.
All of the grade 5 students gave a speech. I am always impressed at their public speaking. All of the students were poised and clear in their communication. The speeches were followed by a potluck dinner and photographs and conversation.
These milestones in our children’s lives are taking on more special meaning as they and Nadia and I get older. It warmed my heart to see Ocean happy and beautiful! It was also nice to have her older brothers come to support her. Ocean is the last of our children to graduate from elementary school. It will be strange next year to only have middle schoolers and high schoolers in the house.
I want to thank grade 5 teacher Trevor Jones for his outstanding work with Ocean. I would also like to recognize Ocean’s BFF, Elina and Alona and their families. When families live far from their homeland, the school takes the place of family and the Jones and Boock families feel like our extended family. We will miss you!
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