“Treasure and remember the special moments of today in your hearts. Be proud that today marks a turning point in your life, an important milestone. No road is entirely smooth; challenges will help you continue to grow. I believe that with what you have learned at The Dewey Schools, you will triumph on your path to your goals.” These are the heartfelt and affectionate words from Ms. Lo Thi Huong, Director of the Elementary Vietnamese Program, to the 5th-grade students.
The graduation ceremony is a milestone that officially marks the learning and experiences students have completed as they move on to a new level of education. It is also an occasion for parents to see the “different” image of their child and recognize their growth.
Recall the feelings of bewilderment and fear students had on the first day of their new grade. Throughout their journey, they have continuously developed themselves, always curious about the world around them, pondering questions like “Who am I? Who do I want to become? What excites me?” From there, they understood the expectations set for themselves, adapted to conquer challenges, grew from their mistakes, and took responsibility for them. The beaming smiles and diplomas in their hands are the well-deserved “sweet fruits” of the persistent efforts of all the 5th and 9th-grade students at The Dewey Schools.
When the bell of knowledge and achievement rings, nothing compares to the excitement and pounding hearts of students who have persevered, embodying the spirit of passion, integrity, generosity, and lifelong learning, along with dedication and relentless effort.
Marie Curie once said, “Life is not easy for any of us. But what of that? We must have perseverance and above all, confidence in ourselves. We must believe that we are gifted for something and that this thing must be attained.”
Believing in yourself is the spirit of TDSers as they embark on a new journey. “I know that you, and I, are worried about achieving high grades, getting into a new school, creating a really good university application, or finding our passion. Things may not go as planned. I want to tell you that we are very resilient. Live fully, pursue your dreams, and strive to be the best you can be,” affirmed Truong An, a student from 9Oslo.
The Dewey Schools believe that, even when faced with major crossroads in life, the graduates from Dewey will confidently spread their wings, soaring high and far to reach new horizons, ready to face any challenge. TDSers, continue your journey with courage and enthusiasm, so that your dreams may always be as vast and brilliant as the sunlight illuminating the path ahead.
