Parents, guardians, teachers and staff celebrated the promotion of 71 fifth-graders Thursday during a festive event at the Power Center Thursday, May 25.
Justin Castro, the valedictorian, delivered a heartfelt speech in which he thanked The Varnett Public School for seven years of excellence. He started his schooling at Varnett from the very beginning as a prek-3 student.
The presentation of medals, trophies and certificates covered such areas as Citizenship Award, Most Improved, Commended Performance in STAAR (The Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness), Excellence in Reading, Excellence in Math, Excellence in Science, Students of the Year, Principal's Award, Salutatorian and Valedictorian.
Ms. Tegria Jones, district instructional coach, was the MC.
Mr. Clarence White, a member of the Varnett board of directors, delivered an inspirational speech after students Oscar Zelaya and Faith Chikala gave a welcoming address in Spanish and English.
Dr. Margaret Stroud, Varnett's superintendent, congratulated the group of students and thanked their families for choosing Varnett for their children's education. Dr. Stroud also issued a reminder that sixth grade will be added at Southwest, East and Northeast when the 2017-18 school year opens on August 21.
During the ceremony, six students were honored with a trophy and certificate for perfect attendance all year. And Ms. LaShanon Hollis, parent liaison at the Southwest Campus, was the recipient of the Parent Involvement Award.
In a touching moment, students presented their parents and guardians with a rose at the end of the ceremony.
Ms. Ni'Cole Mukes, the campus director, thanked Mr. Rogelio Calimag, Mr. Gardy Del Pilar and Ms. Diana Sim who hand-made all the decorations.
Thanks to those who attended and we wish our Varnett family a safe and happy summer.
Photos by Ms. Ilesia Wyatt, district instructional coach
Source: r. Mar