I feel like we celebrated the end of 5th grade and elementary school for weeks, but every single bit of it was fun and sentimental and memorable!
Field Day
I was scheduled to work on John’s last field day but, given my news yesterday, I ended up taking the day to work at home so that I could take a parent volunteer spot. My manager, who has been a friend for years, was very supportive and I am SO glad that I went! It was a great reminder of how much I love our elementary school. The kids were all so full of spirit and happiness, so encouraging to their classmates, and so friendly to the competition as they made their way through the events. The fifth grade teachers got completely in on the action and usually led their class off on each event, which was so fun to witness. These kids have known each other for six years now and will be split between two different middle schools come fall. It was a fabulous day!
5th v Staff Kickball Game
Just a few hours after Field Day and I was headed back to school for the annual 5th grade vs Staff Kickball Game! It was another FUN event full of school spirit, friendly competition and camaraderie. Throughout the school year the PE teachers pick students of the month. The ones chosen in 5th grade comprise the Kickball team representing their grade at the end of the year! John was THRILLED to score a spot on the team. It was so much fun to see the entire school circle the track with signs, posters, and popsicles to watch and cheer. I just thought it was the neatest thing to see the 5th graders play against their 4th and 5th grade teachers, principals, specials teachers and other staff. In the end, the staff pulled off a HUGE win against the kids and it was another reminder of just how great this school has been!
Awards Day
John missed two years of straight A’s with one lousy B in English. To say he was disappointed would be an understatement. He also received recognition for his hard work on student council and a leadership award.
Fifth Grade Finale
When the 5th graders arrived to find their hallway decorated with streamers and emojis for their last week of school, they were SO excited. It was really the cutest thing in the world. They each found a cinch bag with Class of 2024, sunglasses and a party invite waiting on their desk.
Outside a whole slew of parent volunteers transformed the bus lot into party central.
The kids spent the entire day hanging out, playing games, and just enjoying completely unstructured play time. There were inflatables, a photo booth, a DJ, ball games, and so much more. We had pizza delivered for lunch and a snoball truck churning out treats.
This kid had the best time ever and seeing this smile made my day!
Walk of Honor
The very last event of elementary school happened at very end of the very last day of 5th grade. Every student, teacher and staff, along with the 5th grade parents, grandparents and siblings, lined the hallways of the school. The 5th graders walked the halls for the very last time, giving out high fives to their friends in lower grades and flowers to their teachers. There were cheers and tears and it was really such a special way to wrap up six incredible years.
The 5th graders and their families met up in the gym for last goodbyes and pictures.
John loved these two so much – Ms. M in 5th and Mrs. B in 4th.
He wanted to ride the bus home, even though I was there. And now I know why!! There were teachers on the roof with water guns, music blaring from the speakers and bus horts tooting as class dismissed for the last time this school year. The atmosphere was electric!
It’s been quite a ride these last six years and I can hardly stand to think about how much John has grown. Here is was on the first day of Kindergarten…
He’s worked so incredibly hard, played so incredibly hard and made so many memories at this school.
Honey and I couldn’t be prouder of the young man he is becoming. I love you, son, and I can hardly believe that God gave you to me to raise.
DIXIE DELIGHTS DELIVERED
What a fantastic way to send out 5th grade and elementary school! Congratulations, John on all of your accomplishments and the fine young man you’re growing into. And hugs and high-fives for your Mama heart, Amanda. ???? xoxo
thank you!
What a great kid! He is really living up to his potential in all aspects of life.
So happy for him!
Thank you so much!
This makes me teary and he’s not even mine! Haha I’ll be a mess when I’m in your shoes one day. I know you are so proud of that sweet boy!
Oh, tell me about it! It goes quickly.
Oh my that brings back memories. My girls experienced very similar traditions as 5th graders. Gosh that was a long time ago. Have so enjoyed watching him grow over the years. He is an amazing young man, and I can’t wait to see what his future holds.
Enjoy it mama…just like you he’ll be calling home one day to say “he” got the job. Our baby just accepted her 1st “real” job yesterday.
Thank you so much, Lauren. It does go too quickly. I can hardly believe we are on the brink of middle school. Congrats to your daughter!!!
Congratulations John…..have a wonderful summer!
Thanks Marti. I’m sure he will, although it is short here in GA!
I’m sitting here in Germany on vacation reading this blog post, and I am full of tears. Through your blog I have watched him grow and always marvel at the cute way you celebrate all of the special things.
Awww, thank you! I have scaled back on sharing much of his life lately as some of his friends are on social media already. I know so many Dixie Delights readers have literally watched him grow up and cheer him on from afar that I couldn’t resist this post! Can’t wait to read about Germany!!