Another year has come and gone, the end arrives so soon;
What started back in August, has reached its pinnacle near June.
We’ll wrap it up for summer and go our separate ways;
I hope you’ll take some meaning from the last 300 days.
The lessons of a class like this go beyond the printed page
And for the rest of your career, as a learner, set the stage.
I don’t just mean the grammar, or the vocab, or Wuzzle candy.
While those things are important, there are others perhaps more handy.
Each novel that we read this year offered a trait from which to glean
The basis of the humanity you forge when you’re a teen.
Leon’s is a cautionary tale: where the path of ignorance leads;
Jin’s acceptance of himself is how he ultimately succeeds.
Ender is mistreated, betrayed - but still a better future he dreamed.
Scrooge is proof that even a lifetime of mistakes can be redeemed.
Mattie’s strength and perseverance in the face of odds severe
Mirrors Pony’s understanding and intent to be sincere.
Education, acceptance, fortitude – tough lessons, but well-learned.
Generosity, persistence, empathy – how true relationships are earned.
Of course you should continue to strive for excellence;
Be mindful of how and what you write, speak with eloquence.
When the world treats you unfairly, show resolve in vast amounts.
It’s not enough to want success, it’s the work that really counts.
If you’re thinking, “Yes! Sixth and seventh graders…next year we’ve finally got ‘em!”
Remember to stay humble: one year you’re at the top, the next you’re back on bottom.
You’ve seen middle school from two perspectives; now it’s your turn to lead.
Be the class with character, in thought and word and deed.
Be kind to yourself when you make mistakes; you are a work in progress.
Aspire to lift up your classmates, even as you strive for your own success.
The years will take you down the hall, ‘cross the Quad, to parts unknown,
I hope the lessons of seventh grade will remain your cornerstone.
You are in charge of your effort, your demeanor, and your attitude.
You have been gifted with opportunity, and you are with free will imbued.
There’s just one more piece of advice to impart before my time with you is done.
You’ve heard it all year, may it guide you forward: work hard, get better, have fun.
What started back in August, has reached its pinnacle near June.
We’ll wrap it up for summer and go our separate ways;
I hope you’ll take some meaning from the last 300 days.
The lessons of a class like this go beyond the printed page
And for the rest of your career, as a learner, set the stage.
I don’t just mean the grammar, or the vocab, or Wuzzle candy.
While those things are important, there are others perhaps more handy.
Each novel that we read this year offered a trait from which to glean
The basis of the humanity you forge when you’re a teen.
Leon’s is a cautionary tale: where the path of ignorance leads;
Jin’s acceptance of himself is how he ultimately succeeds.
Ender is mistreated, betrayed - but still a better future he dreamed.
Scrooge is proof that even a lifetime of mistakes can be redeemed.
Mattie’s strength and perseverance in the face of odds severe
Mirrors Pony’s understanding and intent to be sincere.
Education, acceptance, fortitude – tough lessons, but well-learned.
Generosity, persistence, empathy – how true relationships are earned.
Of course you should continue to strive for excellence;
Be mindful of how and what you write, speak with eloquence.
When the world treats you unfairly, show resolve in vast amounts.
It’s not enough to want success, it’s the work that really counts.
If you’re thinking, “Yes! Sixth and seventh graders…next year we’ve finally got ‘em!”
Remember to stay humble: one year you’re at the top, the next you’re back on bottom.
You’ve seen middle school from two perspectives; now it’s your turn to lead.
Be the class with character, in thought and word and deed.
Be kind to yourself when you make mistakes; you are a work in progress.
Aspire to lift up your classmates, even as you strive for your own success.
The years will take you down the hall, ‘cross the Quad, to parts unknown,
I hope the lessons of seventh grade will remain your cornerstone.
You are in charge of your effort, your demeanor, and your attitude.
You have been gifted with opportunity, and you are with free will imbued.
There’s just one more piece of advice to impart before my time with you is done.
You’ve heard it all year, may it guide you forward: work hard, get better, have fun.
Revised 5/28/19
