Day Seventeen - Greenie's Post

This marks the 3^rd graduation that Tuskegee has held since it opened in 1998. It is a big event in general in Ghana as developing ones mind is a sign of an opportunity to advance and grow as a productive citizen of Ghana.

Students in various grades have practiced presentations for the graduates that include poetry, songs, dances, and dramatic presentations. Awaiting the start of graduation, music flowed from the new speakers as children moved their bodies with excitement at this all-school event.

Before graduation began, Nicholas ( 6^th grade teacher) introduced Charles, Kate, Joey, Nat (Middle school teacher), and myself. We all sat at the main table next to the graduates and enjoyed the various presentations.

Graduates were first whisked off to put on their Tuskegee t-shirts and graduate necklaces. Later gift bags that included a scientific calculator, protractor set, thesaurus, index cards, pencil & pen box filled with necessary items for high school were presented to the students.

Graduation ceremonies ended with a presentation made by the students to Charles of an eagle with words that said “never give up.” This was a most fitting gift that ties in with Charles’ motto: With a good ATTITUDE, You will develop an APTITUDE, That will raise your ALTITUDE in learning.

Graduation ended with free dancing by all and much joy and happiness. As the day drew to a close, we started realizing the reality of the end of this wonderful journey. It was indeed bittersweet. Hugs, tears, and promises to stay connected reminded us all of the life-changing experience.

They say a legacy is something handed down, a gift of sorts. I believe in legacies. I believe in gifts. Charles, Tuskegee, and I have been given the gift of Kate and Joey who leave their legacies and a little bit of themselves at the school. This was an exceptional time for all of us. We are better for it and we all appreciate the support that Parker school gave, especially Dan Frank in allowing this summer to happen.