I write to you both exhausted and exhilarated. Yesterday, we celebrated Closing Ceremonies for both the Grade 5s from Junior School and Grade 8s from Middle School, recognizing that the organization of our school in three distinct sections provides exciting transitions. It was wonderful to talk to the Grade 5s and 8s about how they have thrived over the last year, and how excited they are to be preparing for the adventures and challenges of the next stage. I wish them well as the progress through the school next year.
Of course, the real story for the end of term is the graduation of our 168 students from Grade 12. An audience of over 1000 gathered in the double gym to celebrate their successes. I have often been heard to utter the phrase, “judge on outcome”. As we listened to the individual biographies of our graduates read brilliantly by University Counselors, one cannot help but be impressed by the achievements of our students across a vast range of areas that we could summarize as the three As – academics, arts, and athletics. The list of university destinations and scholarships won was as impressive as I have ever heard. I know that you all join with me in wishing the graduates continued success as they disperse around the world but always connected by that thread that is the shared SMUS experience.
Valedictorian Jaden Berger-North gave an inspiring address. He spoke to parents and faculty of the gratitude of students for the time that they have enjoyed at SMUS. He reminded graduates of the importance of leading and serving in the moment. Carpe diem. Seize the day.
The ceremony was poignantly concluded by our Chaplain, Reverend Keven Fletcher, who reminded us that in some way or another at the end of the school year we are all crossing a threshold. Those words rung true with me, as Elizabeth and I contemplate the realities of moving away from SMUS, our home over the last seven years, back to retirement in the UK.
I will be writing one final letter before departure next week, but for now I wanted to thank you all for the warm welcome that greeted us, the support that has sustained us, and your continued commitment to the best interests of SMUS and your students, which will ensure the school flourishes into the future.
With best wishes,
Mark Turner
