We Are Ready for This

Just minutes before the ceremony, our 5th-grade classrooms were abuzz with energy as teachers Ms. Jennifer Hayman and Ms. Lauren Kitchin coached the kids through their rehearsed steps for the ceremony. After reviewing their places and cues, they watched a slideshow of their years together on Chesapeake Campus. One 5th grader said, “I can’t believe it’s really ending and Middle School starts next year.”

Memorable Moments

After a brief introduction by Lower School Head Ms. Cathy North, our talented faculty choir sang a rendition of Shine Your Way by Owl City and Luna while Caleb Morgan ‘ 21 accompanied on the piano.

In groups of three, 5th graders took the podium to share memorable moments that exemplify a character trait that is meaningful to them — be bold, be unique, be tenacious, be kind. Their words exemplified Severn's core values of character, conduct, scholarship, leadership, and service. 

Although each student’s experience at Severn has varied, there were common threads throughout. They spoke of their Renaissance classes in which they chose creative and technical outlets outside of the normal curriculum. Several commented on their challenging but rewarding assignment to write their own chapter for the book Wonder. They reminisced about Assateague Island, working with younger students during Helping Hands, Destination Imagination, and performing at assemblies during the year … the list goes on. Each student had a different moment to share, but together they reflect the vibrant energy and camaraderie of this class. 

Most importantly, they spoke of the supportive relationships with their teachers and friends that have made their years on Chesapeake Campus so meaningful. These mentorships and friendships are the foundations of our community and will continue to grow and deepen as they move from middle to high school and beyond.

After receiving their promotion certificates with a handshake from Head of School Lagarde, our 5th graders gathered one final time to sing farewell to the 5th grade and welcome new adventures just around the corner.

And of course, the most important part … cake! Every fifth grader received a piece of cake with their name on it, a symbol of the unity of the class of 2025 and the individual paths they will all follow.

To the Class of 2025

Excerpted from Ms. North's remarks from the ceremony, "You have grown so much and we are so very proud of you. You each have this brilliance and sense of community that speaks volumes about your character, conduct, and scholarship. Whether you started here in preschool, 5th grade or somewhere in between, you have developed into this dynamic group that has touched our hearts. It has been a privilege to be part of your lives during your Severn School experience."