The month of May is a busy and exciting time as the last full month of school. This is the time that students begin transitioning for next year. Next year’s Kindergarten class, the Class of 2031, participated in their Kindergarten Visitation on May 7. Fifth graders have already visited Prairie River Middle School anticipating what next year will look like as sixth graders. Our eighth grade students are working hard in preparation for the Exit Interviews and will soon be finalizing their high school schedules and participating in Link Crew activities.
This is also the time we honor our seniors and their accomplishments as they prepare for life after high school. Many students of the Class of 2018 have been in the district for 13 years or more. Sometimes it’s “good-bye” and for others it’s a “see you later.” But either way, this graduating class will be missed.
Before our seniors walk across the stage, I encourage the community to attend a very special event honoring some of our graduating seniors. The Senior Awards Night will be held on Wednesday, May 23 at 7 p.m. in the Merrill High School Auditorium. This evening is memorable as it is dedicated to our seniors receiving scholarships. Merrill Area Public Schools is well known for awarding some of the highest combined scholarship totals in the state. This is truly a special culminating event recognizing their efforts through the support of their families and the dedication of their teachers.
The community is also invited to attend the Class of 2018 Graduation Ceremony. We are honored to have Merrill High School Alumni Mr. Gerald Whitburn address the class as a guest speaker this year. The MHS graduation ceremonies are very special to this community and I promise you will enjoy this extraordinary event. Graduation takes place on Friday, May 25 at 6 p.m. in the MHS Fieldhouse.
And finally, thank you to our graduating seniors. I have been able to witness many of you grow and mature since the time you were in second grade. Please remember to thank your family for their support, your teachers for their dedication and yourself for not giving up. My wish for you is the understanding that, while you will be challenged by failure, it is only through failure that you can experience success. Persevere through life’s challenges, know that you are supported by many and always maintain that pride that makes you a Bluejay!
Important Dates Reminder
Senior Awards Night: Wednesday, May 23, 7 p.m., MHS Auditorium
Class of 2018 Graduation: Friday, May 25, 6 p.m., MHS Fieldhouse
Memorial Day, No School: Monday, May 28
Last Day of School for Students: Wednesday, June 6
First Day of Summer School: Wednesday, June 13