This week was a bit bittersweet for all. Grade 7 students were sad to leave their elementary school but at the same time excited to start a new journey as high school students.

On Monday we had a farewell ceremony for Grade 7 students at Begbie Elementary. They all looked fabulous in their smart casual outfits.  A lot of parents came to support their children, as well as teachers and members of the administration. Younger students also gathered to say goodbye to their schoolmates. There was something intriguing and special about that moment.

Grade 6s did a very good job of writing a sentence or two describing each Grade 7 student and read it as they walked on the stage to get their medals. This reminded me of home and I even started tearing up. Back in Ukraine bright students who had As and Bs throughout all 11 school years received golden and silver medals at a graduation ceremony. Those medals were a great source of motivation for everyone to study well. Yet, they also promoted unhealthy competition that I was not fond of. I absolutely loved though how here at Begbie every Grade 7 student was acknowledged for his/her efforts by receiving a medal. It was very pleasing to see this inclusiveness and equality.

Grade 7s also prepared a very special thank you gift for the audience – they danced to a song called “GLORIOUS” by MACKLEMORE FEAT SKYLAR GREY. At the end of the song, we handed out glow sticks to them and they waved “goodbye” to everyone – it was magical! Followed by a farewell ceremony, everyone was taking pictures to remember this special day.

On Tuesday we all went on 3-hour leisurely cruise past downtown skyline to celebrate a fantastic year with two grade 6/7 classes. We had a 3-floor cruise ship to ourselves and absolutely enjoyed our ride, as well as lunch on board of the cruise. We all gave students our final words of wisdom before they attempted a new journey and it was a perfect way to end the day trip.

Not only it was bittersweet for all the students, but also for Teacher Candidates as well, as we also had to say good-bye. Reflecting on all of the experiences that I have had at UBC and my practicum schools since September, I can already state with confidence that this year had been the most unforgettable year of my life!

I have met so many talented and intelligent teachers, professionals, educators, and students throughout this journey and they all helped me shape who I am right now as a teacher and an individual. I will be forever grateful for this amazing opportunity and for everything I have learned from those people! Thank you to everyone who believed in me and supported me along the way – this year would not have been that spectacular and awesome without you!

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