Somehow the school year is over. Sixth grade and fourth grade are done. So too, is our time of having kids in the same school. For four years (and another one year at Walnut Park) drop off and pick up time has been easy. And that changes in September.

It starts feeling like the end of the school year at the annual Flag Day celebration. The school comes together for patriotic song but also to reflect on the year. This year they honored Mr. Black, our music teacher- much beloved by Brendan- who passed away in February. Brendan’s class led an emotional tribute. There were also fun parts of the celebration- Mr. Chisholm’s 40th birthday and the pie in the face middle school fundraiser. That event coupled with a great field day left me sending Chris the same message on both days- we made the right choice when we decided to send the kids to the Condon.

Aidan had a great year. He had four great teachers, a locker and time to hang out with friends. He has braces now, contacts- if he chooses to wear them- and more confidence in himself. He’s ready to move on. He was on the honor role. His teachers commented on responsibility. At the closing assembly he received the citizenship award with his longtime friend and classmate reading a description that included “he’s the first to volunteer to help and always says thank you.” We couldn’t be prouder of him.

Fourth grade for Brendan was just as great. He had a teacher who helped him understand his work while finding ways to make it fun- including his Black History Month Project. She let him be with his friends and found ways to use that to her advantage by partnering friends who helped keep each other on task. As the end of the year assembly he received the Dance Award. It was the first year the assembly included awards not just for character and content but also creativity. You couldn’t want a better place for a creative kid.

First Day and Last Day