On the final day of the 2009-10 school year, June 11th, Tyler's class held their fifth grade graduation ceremony. Unfortunately Tyler failed to bring his RSVP form in time, so I was unable to take the day off to attend. Tara went, and she was quite moved. I was really kicking myself for not figuring out a way to make it, but obligations are obligations. Tyler really made us proud this year, being presented with the Presidential Excellence Award, which was for being 1 question short of the requirements for the Presidential Academic Award, which is based on the MEAP (a standardized test given in Michigan) scores from the 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades. The question he missed was way back in the third grade, so we are really proud of him.

    Tyler also had to make the announcement, in front of all the teachers and parents in attendance, of why the class was giving their teachers flowers - "because you rock". He wasn't warned in advance that he had to do this, so we were just glad he was able to say anything. It is likely that I would have froze when asked to do so!

    Tyler was also announced as a member of the S.C.A.P.E. organization, which is basically equivalent to a student council. They are tasked with making the school better , and volunteer to help throughout the year. One of the things Tyler did this year was give teachers from another district of tour of the building before school started one day.

    I know that it is a cliché, but time truly has flown by. We are very proud of all that Tyler has accomplished in his years in elementary school. Not only have his grades improved, but he was a part of a class of kids that truly seemed to get along with everybody. On all of the trips that Tara or I have chaperoned we have never had a bad experience with any of the kids. Hopefully they will remain close next year as they move on to the middle school.

    Congratulations Tyler! We love you!

Tyler's Fifth Grade Graduation Ceremony
	Tyler entering the graduation ceremony.
	Another photo of Tyler entering the graduation ceremony, looking at the camera this time.
	Ms. Lewalski, Mr. Silvey, and Mrs. Teffer - the three 5th grade teachers, along with Mrs. Kittle and Ms. Raymoure.
	Tyler was the recipient of the Presidential Excellence Award.
	Tyler standing with his classmates, all of whom received the Presidential Excellence Award.
	Fourth grade teacher Mrs. Raymoure announcing the S.C.A.P.E. participants. Tyler was part of this group of students whos purpose is to make Patterson a better place for the second year in a row.
	Tyler walking to the stage to receive his 5th grade certificates from his teacher, Mrs. Teffer.
	Tyler receiving his certificate.
	Mrs. Teffer's 5th grade class.
	5th grade students presenting flowers to all three 5th grade teachers.
	Tyler and his friend Quincy handing flowers to Mrs. Teffer. Tyler made the announcement to the crowd that the flowers were from the 5th grade class because she "Rocks". He didn't know that he was supposed to say anything until it was time for him to speak.