Graduation day celebrates the end of one journey and the start of another

The start of summer marks a new chapter for our little learners. On June 18^th and 20^th, Ellis was filled with smiles and happy tears as our eldest students turned the page to the next stage of their education journey. Our Patriots, Bruins, and Maple classrooms celebrated this milestone with the educators who have been with them every step of the way as they grew from bright-eyed toddlers to confident students ready for kindergarten.

The Maple classroom at Ellis JP proudly kicked off this year’s graduation celebrations. The joyful ceremony began with opening remarks from CEO Lauren Cook, who congratulated the students on their growth, resilience, and hard work. Guests were overjoyed as they watched graduates perform songs they had practiced with Mr. Phil from the New England Conservatory. Claire McNally, Vice President of Programs, and Yaskara Cruz, Director of Ellis JP, also shared heartfelt messages for the graduating class, expressing pride in their journey and excitement for what’s ahead.

This graduation was especially meaningful as many of these students were part of the very first infant class at Ellis JP. Watching them grow into confident, capable preschoolers is a powerful reminder of our mission and impact in the Jamaica Plain community. It was a celebration not just of our graduates, but of the nurturing learning environment at Ellis.

Two days later, in the South End, our proud Patriots and Bruins classrooms celebrated their upcoming leap into kindergarten. As the young graduates walked down the green carpet, beaming with excitement and dressed in their caps and gowns, the room radiated with joy. Lauren Cook warmly congratulated the students, celebrating their incredible growth and perseverance during their time at Ellis. Her heartfelt appreciation set the tone for the ceremony, honoring not just the milestone but the journey.

Words of wisdom were shared by Claire McNally and Aiyauna Terry, Director of Boston Pre-K and Preschool. Their reflections and encouragement about stepping into the next chapter resonated deeply with everyone in the room. The beautiful voices of our little learners echoed throughout the room, melting the hearts of all in attendance. It was more than a performance; it was a celebration of childhood.

Ellis sends a huge thank you to our corporate partner, Nutter McClennen & Fish, for providing our students with new backpacks full of all the essentials for our students’ next chapter. Equipped with pens, books, pencil cases, and more, the backpacks help our students enter kindergarten feeling prepared and excited to tackle any challenge that comes their way.

Of course, we could not have reached this point without our incredible educators, whose patience, dedication, and love made this milestone possible. We also extend our gratitude to our families, who partner with us every step of the way. Together, we’ve created a foundation that will serve these children for years to come.

We know these graduates are ready. They are curious, kind, brave, and eager to keep learning. While we’ll miss seeing their bright faces in our classrooms, we know they’re heading into this next chapter with everything they need to thrive!