AFHE Recognizes Junior High Graduates
A Review by Leslie Johnson, AFHE Jr. High Graduate Recognition Director

On July 17, in conjunction with the annual homeschool convention, Arizona Families for Home Education hosted our annual Jr. High Graduate Recognition Night at the Phoenix Convention Center. Sixty-seven graduates from around the state gathered at the South Ballroom to participate in a formal ceremony to recognize and celebrate their homeschool achievements. Marching to the familiar Pomp and Circumstance, the parade of graduates was welcomed by the smiling and proud faces of parents and guests.

The event was highlighted throughout by graduates who auditioned and were selected to participate in the ceremony. Graduate Sean Callahan opened the event with an original piano composition titled Irish Sundays and was followed by the tradition of the posting of the Colors by Squadron 304 Civil Air Patrol color guard before a reverent audience.

This year's event boasted several musical selections played on strings. Katie Dodge played Si Bheag Si Mhor on violin while Teri Colgan and Will Goldenetz played Sonitina, a violin and viola duet.

Not to be overlooked amidst the recognition of the students, master of ceremonies and AFHE Vice President David Monk recognized the faculty noting, "All of you, I am sure, have grown to know your children better through the process. You have shared life together at depth that is not possible with any other means of education," to which the graduates and audience responded with a hearty applause.

The commencement address was then delivered by veteran home educator, curriculum author, and popular speaker Diana Waring. In her dynamic and expressive style, Diana encouraged the graduates to reach for great challenges by doing what they love to do. She told stories of young people who kept with their delights, such as a girl who loved to draw horses who went on to become a member of the team of artists who made the Lord of the Rings costumes and props. Diana's storytelling ability kept the students attentive and engaged.

Transitioning from the commencement address, graduate Sara Gripp performed Mozart's Concerto #3 on violin. The highlight of the evening followed with the recognition of the graduates. As the students crossed the stage each was individually recognized and presented with a certificate acknowledging their achievement. Piano accompanist Nathan Johnson set the tone with classical, spiritual, and original music while parents and guest predictably broke into applause and cheers when their special one crossed the stage.

Rounding out the event were graduates Amanda Romani who played Joseph Hayden's Concerto in G on violin followed by Derek and Kyle Bloomquist who performed Waterfall, a piano duet by Jon Schmidt.

Acknowledging God's provision, blessing, and direction for the graduates and families, father of graduate Elijah Ryberg, Nathan Ryberg gave the benediction. Nathan Tappendorf rounded out the student performances by playing Walz Op. 64, N2 by Chopin.

After the retirement of the Colors, graduates paraded out in recession with looks of relief, joy, and celebration.