Schools Out!

We spent this week attending award presentations, class parties and various play days... each seemed to be very good ways of closing out what was truly a fantastic school year. We have been blessed with amazing teachers for both the girls and they have excelled under their care. Hailey received The Best Listener Award, which was rewarded for the student who always did what they were told and never interrupted or disrupted the teachers or students while in class. She also received a Reading Award for knowing over 200 sight words and ended the school year with all CD's (Constantly Displays) and +'s.

Sarah received the "A" Honor Roll Award , The Principles Award, and The General's Award for straight A's for the entire school year, as well as, straight A's from K - 5th grade. This year she also received the prestigious President's Outstanding Academic Excellence Award. This award was signed by the President of the United States of America and the U.S. Secretary of Education. It is awarded for Academic Excellence and comes with a pin and a congratulatory letter from the President and Mrs. Bush. The letter says,

"Congratulations on receiving the 2008 President's Education Award. Education helps shape the future of our country and is the cornerstone of hopeful tomorrow. For 25 years, the President's Education Award has honored students like you who have shown a strong commitment to academic excellence and have built a solid foundation for a lifetime of accomplishment. This award demonstrates that when you do your best and follow your dreams, there is no limit to what you can achieve. I applaud you for your hard work and determination, and I encourage you to rise to the challenges of new opportunities, be willing to take risks, and apply your talent to great purposes. I appreciate your parents for the love and guidance they have given you, and I am grateful to your teachers for their dedication to you. By preparing a new generation of leaders for success, they are helping to make America stronger and better.
Mrs. Bush and I send our best wishes."

I couldn't help but get misty eyed as we were leaving the school grounds on the girl's last day of school - Knowing next year Sarah will be attending Middle School and Hailey will be off to the "Big Building" for 1st grade. The fact is they're both truly amazing kids and have far exceeded both of our expectations for them. And then there are those that served and educated our children. - How does one begin to say "Thank you" to those who have made such a huge impact on our children's lives? - From teachers to bus drivers to counselors and aids... so many people have played an important role in their education this year. I believe both Sarah and Hailey had some of the most fantastic teachers DoDD's schools have to offer. Once again "Thank you" Mr. Romero, Mrs. Beck, and Miss Amy for all your hard work and dedication to our children!

As for Sarah and Hailey, who this year dealt with tragedy, as well as, also having to suddenly say goodbye to so many good friends, both Daddy and I want to say "Thank you" for never giving up and always striving for excellence no matter what challenges came upon you! - So this summer we're all going to take the opportunity to relax and reflect on last years blessings, and dream about those new lessons and blessings that God has in store for us this upcoming school year. - As of today, the Giles are officially on Summer Break!