Last week, we celebrated an important day for our Grade 5 students as they graduated and moved on to middle school. This event marked the end of their primary school journey and the beginning of a new adventure.
Dear parents, teachers, guests, and our wonderful 5th grade graduates,
Today, as we gather to celebrate the culmination of years of hard work and growth, I am filled with a profound sense of emotion. It is a bittersweet moment, as we say farewell to our exceptional 5th-grade students and prepare to send them off on their next adventure to Middle School.
To our graduates, when I arrived at St. Paul 4 years ago, I was so lucky to have you as my first class of students and I had many of you in my class as my little 2nd graders, my “Super Sunlight Bears”. I got to know many of you who were in Ms. Toni’s 2nd grade class, too, and I loved seeing you in the hallways next to my classroom. During COVID, I continued to watch you grow through online learning as 3rd graders, and then when we finally came back to in-person learning, I got to take over our “Flash Eagles” class. And then… this year… I had so much fun with you all during the 5th grade trip to BaVi! What a wonderful 5th grade experience you all have had this year!
Now that I am your Principal, I want to express my deepest admiration and pride. Over the years, we have watched you blossom into remarkable individuals, each with your own unique talents, passions, and dreams.
Your journey has been marked by moments of triumph and challenges overcome, and through it all, you have demonstrated courage, resilience, and grace. You are all writers and readers, and scientists, and mathematicians, and historians, and digital citizens, and artists, and musicians, and athletes. Your generation is going to save our world and make it a better place. You are all kind and responsible and our school is lucky to have you as St Paul Eagles!
Middle school will undoubtedly bring new experiences, friendships, and opportunities for growth. It will also present its own set of challenges and uncertainties. (And yes… there will be more homework! Sorry guys!!) But I have every confidence that you possess the strength, determination, and character to navigate Middle School with integrity and resilience. And I know you will all make Mr. North proud!
To our parents, I want to extend my deepest gratitude. Your love, guidance, and unwavering support have been such an important part of your child’s journey. It is through your sacrifices and dedication that they have thrived and succeeded. As we send them into the next chapter of their lives, know that they carry with them the values and lessons you have taught them, and they will continue to make you proud in all that they do.
And to our teachers, I cannot thank you enough for the countless hours of dedication, passion, and love that you have poured into our students. Your tireless efforts have not only imparted knowledge but have also fostered a sense of belonging, curiosity, and compassion. You have been mentors, role models, and champions for our students, and for that we are eternally grateful. This goes especially to Ms. Caitlin and Ms. Clare, who, with the support of Ms. Lan, Mr. H, and Mr. Harry, spend countless hours, day in and day out, creating a magnificent learning experience for all their students. On behalf of everyone here in this room, I’d like to say an enormous THANK YOU to Ms. Caitlin and Ms. Clare!!!
As we bid farewell to our graduates, let us take a moment to celebrate the memories we have shared, the lessons we have learned, and the bonds that will forever unite us as a school community. Though our paths may diverge, know that you will always have a home here at St Paul American School Hanoi, where you are loved, valued, and cherished.
Congratulations, 5th graders! May your journey ahead be filled with joy, success, and endless possibilities. And may you always remember the lessons of kindness, empathy, and resilience that have brought you to this moment.
Thank you.
Hello 5th Grade Students and Families!
Today, we come together to celebrate a significant milestone—the graduation of these remarkable students before us. 5th graders it has been our privilege to witness your academic and personal growth throughout this year, and we stand here filled with immense pride and joy.
We have seen you overcome challenges, embrace new ideas, and blossom into confident individuals ready to embark on your middle school journey. Over the past year, we have laughed, cried, danced, played, and studied together, creating a close-knit community where each personality shines. The wonderful memories we’ve made together will be cherished forever.
To celebrate each of your unique qualities, Ms. Clare and I would like to present every 5th grader with an award that best represents who they are.
We are incredibly proud of your progress and hard work, and today we are thrilled to celebrate your transition to the next chapter of your journey. As you move on to middle school, remember that learning is a lifelong adventure. Embrace new challenges, seek knowledge, and broaden your horizons. Stay true to yourselves, follow your passions, and dare to dream big, and don’t forget our doors are always open and we love seeing our middle school friends.
Carry the lessons you’ve learned, treasure your friendships, and never stop exploring. It has been an absolute pleasure to teach you all in 5th grade. Here’s to an amazing year and your continued success as you step into 6th grade.