“People often liken teachers to diligent ferrymen who guide generations of students to their destinations. However, I see it differently. You and I are all crew members aboard the 12Madrid ship. Together, we have rowed and braved the waves, and now we are about to reach the shore. You are undoubtedly eager and filled with faith in the future and the path ahead. No matter what the future holds, I wish for you to always do what you say and take responsibility for your actions. Do not fear failure, for you have the privilege of failing. Dare to try, dare to make mistakes, and recognize your growth every day.”
These heartfelt words from Ms. Be Thi Thanh Thanh, the homeroom teacher of 12Madrid, are a loving message from the school to the 12th-grade students—the first graduating generation of The Dewey Schools – Tay Ho Tay.
As the inaugural graduating class, 12Madrid embodies all the educational values of The Dewey Schools. Your maturity today is a testament to the dedication and unwavering commitment of the school’s leadership and teaching staff over the past eight years.
The journey ahead for you is not only equipped with the four core values (Integrity, Generosity, Passion, Lifelong Learning) but also with the love and affection from your teachers and friends. “The bonds you have formed and the experiences you have accumulated at Dewey have shaped you profoundly. Cherish these connections. As you step into the world beyond The Dewey Schools, carry with you the spirit of unity and the warmth of these relationships,” Dr. David Wells, Chairman of The Dewey Schools Board, advised the 12th-grade students.
For the students of 12Madrid, this summer is truly memorable, marking your maturation. The fledglings of yesteryear are now confidently soaring into the vast future. Your growth today is a gift and a source of happiness for your teachers and parents, who have nurtured you over the years. “I never thought that seven years later, Ha Anh would be able to achieve goals that once seemed so far-fetched. My personal development journey at Dewey has shown me that nothing is impossible,” shared Nguyen Vu Ha Anh (12 Madrid) on behalf of the 12th-grade students during the graduation ceremony.
The essence of youth will linger forever
Perhaps each member of 12Madrid wishes this moment could stand still, reflecting the theme “Infinity” of Prom’24. Whether donning a cap and gown, elegant dresses, or dashing suits, TDSers always shine brightly and distinctively in their own ways.
The Graduation Ceremony and Prom ’24 have left indelible marks and unforgettable emotions in the hearts of each student, especially those in Grade 12 at Dewey. It was the last time 12Madrid sat together, reminiscing about the vibrant moments of their youth. It was the last time they stood together under the spotlight. It was the last time they poured their hearts out in a night of music. It was the last time they put their arms around each other, exchanging tight hugs.
“The last time we walked together, the last time just like the first time…” – This song lyric brought a hush over the hall, filling it with deep emotion. And so, the journey of 12Madrid at Dewey has come to an end. There were tears that flowed inward, gentle touches of nostalgia, and poignant regrets. Yet, like a ship that must depart from the dock, no matter how much we yearn to stay, the journey cannot be delayed.
Even if that last time passes, even if it was “like a fleeting dream,” the beautiful youth we experienced at Dewey will always remain here, in the hearts of all of us. The last time, for the things that have passed, for the lingering memories that will stay forever…
