Today was the last day of school for our 8th graders. It’s usually a very tough last two weeks with the 8th graders as they are itching to leave junior high behind, but they have overall been very kind, helpful, and mature. We practiced for graduation Mass this morning, and I was very impressed with their focus and maturity then as well. At the end of the day, I witnessed a group bear hug with the whole class along with some other hugs with teachers and students. One 8th grader started to tear up after most had left—he was sad about the year ending. When another classmate saw and heard, that classmate gave him a consoling hug and reminded him that the class would be together again for graduation Mass. It will be tough to see this 8th grade class leave, but I’m happy I will have the privilege to follow most of them to high school at Pius.