Louis graduates from 6th grade

We must add that Louis picked out his own clothes, opting to wear a shirt and tie when he could have worn a simple polo!

Graduation is a big deal around Montreal. For the most part, kids only go to two schools -- an elementary school (grades K-6) and a high school (grades 7-11). Typically we are not a family that would think a ceremony for graduating 6th grade would be necessary. But, we went along with the festivities because, well, we had no choice. Were we ever surprised. First of all, the festivities and ceremony for the 6th graders were REALLY for the kids, not the parents.  It was amazing! Louis' "grad" events went on for about a week. (It's called "grad" for short, which refers to the actual ceremony, other events, and when they get in high school, the "prom." Fortunately, they don't have dances for ever holiday, instead, they save it up for a big event in grade 11). 

Louis and his classmates had the trip to Ottawa, a day at a water park and then there was the actual "grad" ceremony. 

We actually found ourselves sniffling due to seasonal allergies choked up. The kids all walked in to the amazing song "Wavin' Flag" by K'naan. Appropriate since it's during the World Cup and this artist happens to be Somali-Canadian. 

Paul was particularly impressed with one of Louis' teachers who quoted Bob Dylan's Forever Young at the end of his speech.

It was a simple and perfect ceremony. It was about the kids and for the kids. We're so fortunate that we found the perfect school for Louis. He has made some great friends. Unlike our life in Naperville, his classmates will go on to several different schools...French, English, private, public and international. Only 60% of his class is going to our local high school, Beaconsfield High School, or B.H.S. or as Louis keeps calling it..."B.S."

After the ceremony it was time for the kids parents to take photos. Many of these kids have been together since kindergarten.

Then it was time for the celebration...kids went home and changed for a party at the pool next door to the school and then a beach party in the gym. No parents were allowed! It was a great day for Louis and his friends. In the next couple of days we're going to write about a special award Louis received the next day, the last day of school which was yet another event for the kids...a special 6th grade breakfast and send-off. Very cool.

Click here for Wavin' Flag video/song

Forever Young

May God bless and keep you always
May your wishes all come true
May you always do for others
And let others do for you
May you build a ladder to the stars
And climb on every rung
May you stay forever young
Forever young, forever young
May you stay forever young

May you grow up to be righteous
May you grow up to be true
May you always know the truth
And see the lights surrounding you
May you always be courageous
Stand upright and be strong
May you stay forever young
Forever young, forever young

May you stay forever young
May your hands always be busy
May your feet always be swift
May you have a strong foundation
When the winds of changes shift
May your heart always be joyful
May your song always be sung
May you stay forever young
Forever young, forever young
May you stay forever young