They played Pomp and Circumstance, and Nicole solemnly folded her arms the whole time, as they paraded in a line behind us and through the center of the room, to file neatly into their chairs.
They had a little musical program prepared to tell us everything they learned this year.
Nicole completed four projects this year so she could qualify for the Patriot Pride award at the end of the year - she got a little medal that she was very excited to receive. She was also surprised to receive IB Student of the Year - one of two students from her grade level! They read out her name, a short paragraph about her, and then the principal said, "Nicole? Nicole? Is she here?" Nicole sat there confused because she "didn't know they said, 'Nicole F.'" Eventually, her teacher went up and let her know she should go up and receive the trophy. When she sat down, her excited classmates wanted a look at the trophy, so they passed it around a little. Afterwards, one of her classmates told her, "You got two awards! Good job!" She is lucky to have such friendly, positive classmates!
I'm honestly not sure of the criteria for the award, but because it's "IB Student of the Year," I imagine it has to do with the IB qualities:
Inquirers: Develop a natural curiosity that allows them to become lifelong learners.
Knowledgeable: They explore ideas of importance and dig deep into its meaning creating a balance of their learning.
Thinkers: They apply thinking skills that allow them to tackle complex problems in creative ways.
Communicators: They understand and can articulate information in confident, creative ways, including a second language.
Principled: Students are honest, fair, just and full of integrity. They strive to solve their own problems and to take responsibility for their own actions.
Open-minded: Students understand and embrace other cultures. They recognize and celebrate their own backgrounds and learn tolerance for others.
Caring: Students actively care about others and participate in active service.
Risk-Takers: Students are brave in the face of new challenges. They strive to take on new roles and to defend their own beliefs.
Balanced: Students understand the need to be emotionally, physically and mentally balanced. They strive for this in themselves and others.
Reflective: Students reflect on their own learning. They are able to adjust for weaknesses and strengths.
Congrats, Nicole! I hope she continues to enjoy learning and place value in the IB qualities so she can become a well-rounded contributing member to society.
Because we have had such a positive experience with this school, because of its strong community, and because the nearby charter school we were considering abruptly closed (long story), we've decided to continue to make the drive so Nicole can attend this great school another year!
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