I would like to ask for your help in reversing a trend we have been noting over the last few years. More and more children have been absent for Awards Day and Graduation. For first through eighth grades, the school year is in fact not over until after Graduation. I realize everyone is eager to start the summer, but the reason we include these seven younger grades in both these events is to show the entire school community's support for our eighth graders and to celebrate all they have contributed to our school community over the years. Since we consider ourselves a family school and since we do much throughout the year to support different groups and grades in the school, it is only fitting that everyone be here to celebrate, support, and send off our oldest “family members.” While absences due to illness cannot be avoided, before you consider having your first through seventh grader miss Awards Day and Graduation for any other reason, I ask you to give this mindful, considerate deliberation. Thank you.