Rayleigh's Last Weeks at Rondo and 6th Grade Promotion

 Ray ended elementary school on a high note. Rondo had it's ups and downs with teachers and friends, but she definitely learned a lot and is a better person for her time in Rondo's halls. Mrs. Ozier, the speech teacher, reminded me about how Ray hid under a desk in the nurse's office when she went to Rondo for a speech assessment during the pandemic in 1st grade. She thought she was so funny! 

Rayleigh has grown into a beautiful, smart, compassionate, caring young lady. Her friend's voted her the "Hype Leader"- always cheering everyone on and lifting people up. They also voted for her to be a host during graduation and she did a fantastic job. Her poise on stage is so natural and she is so confident when she's up there. 

I took Ray to Rondo for a photo shoot one evening and the sunset was breathtaking. I wanted to capture Ray as she is right now- just on the precipice of a more mature adventure. No more playgrounds. No more swings. She is ready. But it's the end of an era and I'd be lying if it didn't pull at my heartstrings. She was excited to participate in 6th grades awesome Ancient Olympiad and did SO great in the dance she performed for the whole school with a few fellow 6th grade students. It was a lot of hard work to pull off the Olympiad but it was great and she really loved every minute of it. 

She also had a blast at the 6th grade dance. I was asked to chaperone which was such a treat (though I don't think my hearing has recovered). Before the dance, she met up with friends at the park to take pictures and she was there a bit early. Another group of girls was there and lovingly included Rayleigh in their photos which was so super sweet. Ray really is loved by her peers. After the dance, we met up at a crepe place for a late night bite to eat and then she had a sleep over at Alaina's. She was at Alaina's house the following night too for a slumber party to celebrate Alaina's birthday! Alaina has been such a good friend to Ray and I love that their friendship has blossomed more this year. These 2 girls are so cute together and so much alike. Alaina is smart and sweet and both girls are a little on the immature side. You should have seen some of these other girls at the dance! Oh my!!!!

Ray really loves spending time with her friends and I'm thankful she's included in so many good times (pool parties and birthday parties and such). 

Rayleigh's 2nd grade teacher, Mrs. Arce, came for 6th grade promotion and they cried when they hugged each other. Mrs. Arce was such an amazing teacher and really saw Rayleigh for who she is. Her 3rd grade teacher, Mrs. Murphy, saw Ray's strengths and allowed her to flourish. 4th grade was a nightmare but Ray learned a lot of crucial lessons about resilience. 5th grade was definitely a recovery year but it set her up perfectly for 6th grade where she was truly able to shine. She was lead in the school play, earned excellent grades, made many good friends, and matured so much. (Maybe there's hope for Jack!!!)

Rayleigh, words can't express how much we love you and how proud we are of you. Keep letting your light shine. Be exactly who you are because the world needs you. We need you! You are extraordinary and I know you will do great things in Junior High!