GENTRY, AR -- Gentry Primary School celebrated the conclusion of kindergarten for more than 110 students Tuesday, recognizing the accomplishments these young Pioneers achieved during their first year of school.
Each student received a special certificate and sang celebration songs under the direction of the school’s music teacher, Jason Burns. More than 400 family members, caregivers, and friends attended the ceremony, which was also livestreamed by members of Gentry’s EAST program for those who could not attend in person.
“Kindergarteners, when you walked through our school doors all those months ago, some of you had big backpacks, some of you had tears, and almost all of you were a bit nervous,” Primary School Principal Andrea Folger told the students. “But today? Today, you walk in as confident leaders, ready for first grade. We are incredibly proud of how much you have grown.”
One of the musical performances, “On My Way,” has become a tradition for kindergartners to perform during the end-of-year ceremony. Some of the lyrics include:
“I’m on my way — I’m kinder and smarter
I’m on my way — I’m braver and stronger
I’m on my way — Watch me be the best that I can be!”
Kindergarten teachers at Gentry Primary School are Hannah Cypert, Mikaila Gardner, Brittany Martin, Mattison Eddy, Tory Bradley, Michelle Jech, and Shanda Perez. Kindergarten support staff includes Johnna Baggett, Brookley Trammell, and Zachary King.
The final day of school is Thursday. The students will officially begin first grade when school resumes Wednesday, Aug. 12.