Tuesday, July 1, 2014

School's Out!

We are so proud of Drew and the year he had in first grade.  He adored his teacher, Ms. McManus, as did George and I.  She continued to impress right through to the end.  Parents were invited to attend a Writer's Presentation the last week of school where the students read one of their pieces (if they chose to) and had the others on display.  The classroom was decorated, treats were out for the taking, and it was clear those kids had been practicing!  Most braved the crowd and the microphone while proudly reading their masterpiece to the audience.  Drew read a story he wrote about visiting his grandparents and he did a great job, he even received a few chuckles as he explained that after arriving at CC and Day Day's, there was "lots and lots of hugging and kissing going on!"  He's right!  Drew was thrilled that we were there, especially David, and showed us all of his writing.  It's amazing what 1st graders can do!! 

A couple of weeks before school was coming to a close, Ms. McManus contacted me to share the news that Drew would be receiving an award at the end of year awards ceremony and she extended an invitation to attend.  Turns out, Drew was awarded the Citizenship Award!  I'm not sure I've ever been prouder.  The kids don't know who is receiving awards and although Drew saw me in the audience, he didn't seem to pick up on it. The principal described the Citizenship Award as going to the student that best represents Wake County's character traits - courage, self discipline, perseverance, integrity, respect, responsibility, kindness, and good judgment.  Thank goodness I had it on video so I could play it back and recall those traits!  When they announced Drew's name, he stood up, gave an enthusiastic "YES!" with a cha-ching arm motion, and hurried to the stage.  Upon returning to his seat, his classmates greeted him with high fives.  As you can imagine, I was beaming from the audience! 



Refreshments 
Waiting his turn to read.
The book he shared with everyone. 
A few of the others.  
Awards ceremony.

USA played that afternoon in a World Cup game, hence the red, white, and blue. 
I love the comments from Ms. McManus on Drew's report card. 
 
Drew typed this in Technology the last week of school.  I thought it was precious because earlier that week I was snuggling him and saying I wasn't ready for him to be a second grader :)
And, it's summer!!  The boys have a month of camp, long weekend beach trips, and other fun in store before school starts July 28th.