My Soaring Hawk

My daughter had her 8th grade ceremony this month and I am so proud of everything she has accomplished.

Despite her being an honor roll student, Bug doesn’t actually like school. Ever since she was a small child, she would lament about what was being taught. She would either refer to it as stupid, boring, and/or unfair. I 100% agree with her that public school education is nonsensical more often than not. While my reasons are related to children needing useful, applicable to life education, Bug’s reasoning is that she shouldn’t have to endure learning things she already knows. After hearing her say it so many times and also knowing that when she isn’t challenged she disengages via boredom, I figured I had to get her in a school where she had less distractions, more to do, and teachers who would welcome her curiosity.

The public middle school she attended fulfilled most of these things. Whenever I saw her disengaging, I made sure to engage and share information that would challenge her thinking, among a host of other tactics. And that shit actually worked!

Among the nine awards she received, one was for being one of the top students in the school. They call it the Soaring Hawk award. One of Bug’s favorite teachers gave the speech and I wanted to share it because it is truly unforgettable. While I hear people say that Bug is a good kid, this teacher spent three and a half minutes describing my child in a way that indicated she SEES her. I asked Bug if I could post it online because of how amazing it was… for someone else to see my daughter the EXACT same way that I do AND be able to articulate it so well, it brought me to tears. It’s pretty lengthy but this was the teacher’s speech for my daughter:

“Today I have the pleasure of standing before you to celebrate a remarkable 8th grade student who embodies the very essence of excellence, kindness, and integrity.

It is not often that we encounter individuals who seamlessly blend academic success with genuine compassion, responsibility, and respectfulness. Yet, in our midst, we have a shining example of such a remarkable combination.

Let me paint a portrait for you, not merely of a student, but of an extraordinary individual whose presence enriches our school community every single day. Picture this 8th grader whose dedication to their studies is matched only by their unwavering commitment to kindness and respect towards their peers and educators.

Some words that have been used to describe this student are “a joy to teach, polite, kind, empathetic, generous, goofy, funny, an independent thinker, respectful, and generally an all-around good person who is a blast to be around.”

This remarkable 8th grade student is not just a diligent student; they are the epitome of academic excellence. Their grades are not merely a reflection of their intellect, but also of their unyielding determination and perseverance. Whether it’s acing a challenging math problem or creating beautiful art in their art class, this student tackles every task with enthusiasm and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. As stated by one of their teachers, this student “is a student I can trust. I trust them to remain focused on the assignments, help someone in need, and participate in class when others won’t. This student is the epitome of a well-rounded student.”

But this student’s brilliance isn’t confined to the classroom. What truly sets this student apart is their exceptional character. They exude kindness in every interaction, their genuine warmth, touching the hearts of all who have the privilege of knowing them. Whether it’s offering a helping hand to a struggling classmate or simply sharing a smile in the hallway, this student embodies the true spirit of empathy, generosity, and compassion.

Responsibiity is not just a word in their vocabulary; it is a guiding principle in everything they do. This student sets high standards for themselves and volunteers to help wherever and whenever they can.

Respectfulness is woven into the very fabric of their being. This student treats everyone with the utmost dignity, respect, and consideration, regardless of their background or beliefs. In their presence, all feel valued and respected, for they recognize the inherent worth and dignity of every individual.

And let us not forget the unwavering friendship, for they are not just a stellar student but also a true friend. This student’s friends enjoy a source of endless encouragement and support. This student’s loyalty knows no bounds, and their presence brings joy and laughter to those lucky enough to call them a friend.

In honoring this exceptional 8th grade student today, we celebrate more than just their academic achievements. We celebrate their indomitable spirit, their boundless kindness, their unwavering sense of responsibility, their profound respectfulness, and their invaluable friendship.

So let us raise our voices in applause, not just for her accomplishments, but for the extraordinary person she is and the bright future that awaits her. To our wonderful 8th grade girl: May your journey be filled with continued success, endless blessings, and the same kindness and grace that you so generously bestow upon others.

Congratulations to Logan Samuels!”