By Terra Avilla
On a beautiful, overcast evening last week dozens of little green robes and tassels bebopped around Memorial Ball Park. It was, of course, followed by squeals and shrieks, games of tag and hugs from their mommies and daddies. It was Leap Ahead’s Pre-K graduation, and it was wonderful.
Now, my oldest, Peach, was a Leap Ahead Graduate but due to the ways of the world in the spring of 2020, she did not get a graduation and I am so glad that my second got to have this experience.
First and foremost, I want to thank Ms. Pam, the owner of Leap Ahead for all of her work.
When the center lost Ms. Tambra, I was devastated (and still am) however Ms. Pam has done an amazing job. She and her wonderful staff possess an innate ability to connect with children on a personal level.
They all have a warm and inviting demeanor that instantly puts children at ease, creating a safe and welcoming space for their growth and development.
I have seen Ms. Pam’s interactions with her students and they are are marked by patience, kindness and a genuine understanding of their individual needs.
I have seen numerous instances where their staff have gone above and beyond to ensure that every child receives personalized attention.
My girls are wonderful examples. Two very different types of learners. Two very different types of personalities, yet during their time at Leap Ahead, both have flourished.
So naturally, as thankful as I am for Pearl’s time there, I am sad that her graduation means I will only have one baby left to attend Leap Ahead. One baby left to graduate Pre-school… (pause for a moment, while I bawl into my coffee.)
This string of emotions was ever present at the world’s cutest graduation ceremony, which was an absolutely wonderful and heartwarming event that left everyone in attendance feeling proud and filled with joy.
The entire event lasted only 25ish minutes and ended with cake, which in my humble opinion, is honestly how every graduation ceremony should go.
They sang cheerful songs and recited the pledge of allegiance. Each child was called up individually to receive their diploma, a symbolic recognition of their hard work and readiness to move on to the next chapter of their educational journey.
The little smiles on their faces as they walked across the stage was priceless.
The kiddos were each given a book, signed by all of the staff and the children swarmed Ms. Willow, who wore a dress decorated in the artwork of the kids. It was just perfect.
For me – it was a moment of reflection on how far my child has come. How far my family has come. From her first day at preschool to this remarkable graduation day. After the diplomas were awarded, the celebration continued with a reception filled with delicious treats and refreshments.
It marked the end of a beautiful chapter and the beginning of new adventures for all of these families. Thank you so much Ms. Pam and staff for putting on this wonderful event. It will hold a special place in my memories and will forever be one of the reasons I love where we live.
