As Extended School Year comes to a close, classrooms are cleaned out, and tables are wiped free of crayon and marker strokes, our students will soon be at pools, barbecues, and Summer getaways.

Our students have demonstrated incredible resilience, growth, and determination. Each day at the Early Learning Academy has been filled with moments of discovery, adventure, and small victories that add up to monumental progress.

Here are a few of our favorite memories:

“I am so privileged to have had such a great group of students in my first year back at CCVI,” says Kelsey. “You all (parents and students) have made this such a great transition back and have sent encouraging messages along the way. I'm so excited to see what the future holds for all of you and can't wait to watch you grow!”

We have watched our students start hesitantly in our halls and grow into independent individuals set up for success in a world not built with them in mind. We remember the smiles that lit up the room during story time, the excitement of new friendships formed, and the determination in each child's face as they mastered new skills.

While CCVI holds Celebrate Success, our graduation ceremony in May, a portion of our oldest class actually walked the halls for the last time in July. Therefore, this month marks a memorable milestone in the educational journey of many.

Kelsey Bink, CCVI’s classroom five teacher with the majority of graduating students says that some of her favorite memories involve sharing Louis’ joy of school, Emmett’s use of eye gaze, and Arthur’s knock knock jokes.

Abigail Chappell, CCVI’s classroom four teacher laughs when remembering when Ms. Delaney connected microphones to the PA system to let the kids sing over the speakers.

“Wells got so into it,” says Abigail. “That definitely sticks out to me when looking back.”

As educators, we wear many hats: mentors, cheerleaders, and trusted companions. Therefore, some of our staff have glossy eyes when we say goodbye to our graduates, but we are always grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of their lives.

“We believe in you,” says Kerry Boehm, Executive Director. “And we can't wait to see the incredible things you will accomplish in the future.”

To stay connected to CCVI after graduation, make sure to subscribe to our newsletter for alumni!