8th Grade Celebration

This year our school is pioneering something new-- an 8th Grade Chapel Celebration, in place of a formal 8th Grade Graduation.  Honestly, we were a bit bummed when we first heard Delia would miss graduating, but what we participated in at yesterday's chapel was totally student-led and God-glorifying!  It was full of scripture, blessing, memories and displays of the students' talents.  It was a good change that made us realize we didn't even miss the "Pomp and Circumstance", robes, and diplomas.  There was just one thing we did all miss-- siblings, who were still in school, including Ella who was taking exams during the chapel. 

Delia was super honored to be one of the few kids chosen to give the big speech.  Every kid wrote and presented a speech a few weeks ago and hers was picked!  She delivered the Welcome and explained what we were celebrating (surviving 9 years of school and some of the challenges that came with it, friendships, their teachers' impact, their future, and God's faithfulness) at this "Celebration".  She was poised and confident and kicked things off with warmth and earnestness and even a few jokes!

The kids picked the song "Yes, I Will" as their class song and sang it for us.  I actually got a little choked up hearing them boldly declare that they choose to praise, glorify, lift, and bless God, even in their lowest valleys.

"I count on one thing

The same God that never fails

Will not fail me now

You won't fail me now

In the waiting

The same God who's never late

Is working all things out

You're working all things out

Yes I will, lift You high in the lowest valley

Yes I will, bless Your name

Oh, yes I will, sing for joy when my heart is heavy

All my days, oh yes I will

And I choose to praise

To glorify, glorify

The Name of all names..."

After praise songs, a picture slide show, a video of interviews with some students about what different aspects of the school have meant to them, and a special time where the audience stood and sang a benediction right to the 8th graders to bless them, we were dismissed for outdoor fellowship and continued celebrating!

Delia's BFF for years-- Kate (above) and her newest friend Jacey (below), who joined their class halfway through this year and who Delia welcomed immediately, and became fast friends with.

A dear friend who will not be returning to our school-- Elle.

Delia's favorite teacher, Mrs. M., who is her kindred spirit and who meets with Delia outside of school every month or so to mentor and encourage her.  We LOVE Mrs. M. and are so thankful for her influence on Delia! 

And this adorable Kindergarten Graduation picture recreation of Delia with probably her oldest friend-- Jared.  You know Jared's mom and I are just delighted that they've stayed friends and were up for our silly picture recreating antics! We'll get the third installment at their High School Graduation! ;)

Delia works hard at school and has to intentionally persevere academically.  She did that through MS and we are so proud.  But, what we love most about watching Delia navigate these Middle School years is seeing her kindness and compassion.  She loves and cares deeply about people and we saw evidence of her bright light and good heart in a few of the things her classmates voted for.  She was picked as one of the three friendliest girls and was recognized as the "Most Likely to be Friends with Everyone".  In Middle School, everyone needs a friend and a place to belong.  We could not be prouder that Delia is known to be the person who will give you that.  We look forward to seeing the way our big-hearted girl and her sweet class will bless the High School in the future years!