On May 6, 14 seniors and their families gathered in Texas to celebrate their graduation from ICA. The celebration started the day before when some of the seniors went to the Dallas World Aquarium for the Day Away. On this trip, the seniors saw a variety of animals including sloths, otters, birds, snakes, and fish. They even were able to see the sharks at feeding time.
The Day Away was also an opportunity for classmates to meet each other. Students from Kentucky, Texas, Iowa, Arizona, and Alberta, Canada were able to attend.
On May 6, the formal celebration began as the graduates entered into their commencement ceremony. During the ceremony there were two student addresses. Julia Swyden shared the importance of perseverance and how it can be used to overcome challenges in our lives. Joshua Edwards shared a video he made showing how he was able to do his schoolwork all over the world as his family worked in the mission field. The graduate address was given by Mr. Kevin Youngblood, who kept everyone laughing as he challenged the graduates to be committed to their goals in order gain success in their endeavors.
According to Kimberly Smith, faculty advisor, "The graduation ceremony was just what I expected: an inspiring message and students excited for the next phase of their lives."
The faculty and staff of Ignite Christian Academy would like to congratulate all of the graduates of 2011.
Graduation ceremonies will also be taking place in Orlando, FL on May 27 and in Washington, D.C. on June 2.