Sam's Preschool Graduation

Sam graduated from Asbury Preschool last Thursday evening. The kids sang a couple of songs, then went up individually to accept their diplomas. Some of you know that we have been wrestling with waiting to send Sam to kindergarten until next fall. The decision was made more difficult because we were accepted by lottery to go to McLean Science and Technology Magnet School, which was the school we wanted Sam to go to. We found out the "lottery" only selected 12 out of 50 applicants for the kindergarten spots. Once you are accepted by the magnet school, all future siblings also are able to attend. So not only were we deciding about Sam, but later Ben. After a 2 hour parent/teacher/preschool director conference, many discussions with other teachers, and finally a phone call from the McLean kindergarten teacher, we have decided to wait another year. Our brother-in-law told Doug while he was in Oregon that we should give Sam another year to be a kid. He'll have plenty of time to be in school for the next 13 years. I'm thrilled because it means that Sam will be able to go to Bible Study Fellowship Children's program for another year, and will be able to attend with Ben beginning in January (once Ben turns 2). Sam will go back to Asbury 3 days a week and be in "Miss Dorothy's" Class. She has been Miss Ladonna's substitute several times. Sam will continue to receive Occupational Therapy for free to help him with some of his motor skill issues, and Ms. Dorothy will be able to help Sam focus on some of the areas that he still struggles in (following directions, staying on task....sounds like typical boy issues, huh!!)

Here is a picture of the first day of Preschool..

I meant to take a picture on the last day of preschool, but I forgot. So here is a picture of Sam after graduation. I think he has grown and matured quite a bit over the last year!

Here's a video from the rehearsal of a bit of the song they sang. Sam has been singing it around the house almost every day. He is on the 2nd row towards the left side. I had to play this video several times to find him, and I even knew where he was standing. Enjoy!