Counting the Days

My son is graduating on Friday, the 31st, and the last 3 weeks in school is probably the fastest 3 weeks I've ever seen (and will see) in his entire stay at St. Joe.

Let's rewind the last 2 weeks prior to this week, so you have an idea of what he's been through, beginning the week of May 13th.

That week saw them taking final tests and finalizing school work. On the 14th was their last Spring Concert, and on the 17th was their super successful and fun-filled "grand" graduation dinner-dance at the Cabana Club.

The following week, on the 20th, there was the CYO awards night, which officially ended his participation in CYO sports. It was also Class Theme Day for the entire school, wherein the 8th graders proudly wore their high school apparel. Tuesday, the 21st, was another "theme" day in school, where students wore their favorite color. It was also on this day that they turned in their final school report. On the 22nd was School Pride Day, and everyone wore their school uniform with pride and dignity, as they heard mass in the morning.

The next day, the 24th, was the much anticipated school event -- Field Day. On this day, students were divided into 4 teams representing different colors, and competed in various fun and skills activities. For 8th graders (the parents, that is), they were responsible for manning the snack shack, and proceeds from the sale would go to the class' gift to the school (from the Class of 2013). Field Day was also a short day, as school ended at 12:15. Friday, the 24th, was a school holiday, and the start of a 4-day weekend going into the Memorial Day holiday on Monday, May 26th.

Now, the final week of school. All their school work and final requirements should have already been submitted, and there is nothing else to do except to prepare for the big day. On Tuesday, the 28th, it is a non-uniform dress day for the 8th graders. They will practice for their graduation the entire morning, and their gowns will be given to them to take home. The next day, the 29th, is another non-uniform dress day for the 8th graders, and more graduation practice. They will also have the traditional 1st/8th grade brunch before school ends at 2pm. But their day doesn't end. On this day, they will be having their Graduation Overnight Retreat at the Parish Hall.

The following day, Thursday, the 30th, would be the continuation of their overnight retreat, which ends at 12 noon. Then, they all go home for a much needed rest for one of the biggest events of their young lives. On Friday, May 30th, the graduates will celebrate their Baccalaureate Mass and Awards Ceremony at 10:30am, which will be attended by all the students, faculty, staff, and guests. In the afternoon, beginning at 5, will be the Graduation and Awards Ceremony. There will be a small reception at the Parish Hall immediately following the ceremony.

The final week will go by so fast. The next thing you'll know, it's Friday.

Then, it's over.