On May 6, 20126, the graduating class of Explore 2000 Middle School held its Ring Ceremony. The first Ring Ceremony celebrated in the new building was an emotional event. It symbolized the end of one era and the beginning of a new one. The Third Year class faced the audience of First and Second Year students as they received their class rings and relived memories.
Each Third Year student was introduced by a video description by Second Year students or teachers. Each introduction began with a characterization of the student, ending with the student's name. Many of the videos brought laughter to the listeners. One by one, the graduating class came to the podium and received their ring which was placed on their fingers by Ms. Garrett and Ms Norcia. Parents and friends commemorated the moment with photos.
A slideshow of pictures featuring the experiences of the Class of 2016. The class enjoyed sharing the memories.
The slideshow was accompanied by two songs,
"Be Humble and Kind" by Tim McGraw
"Hold the door, say please, say thank you
Don't steal, don't cheat, and don't lie
I know you got mountains to climb but
When the dreams you're dreamin' come to you
When the work you put in is realized
Let yourself feel the pride but
Always stay humble an kind."
and "My Wish" by Rascal Flatts
"I hope you never look back but you never forget
All the ones who love you and the place you left
I hope you always forgive and you never regret
And you help somebody every chance you get"
The history of class rings was shared. The class ring tradition began in 1835 at West Point Military Academy when rings were given to show unity of the class members and remembrance of the experience of their time at the Academy. Included in class ring tradition is turning the ring for good luck. The number of turns corresponds to the year of graduation. The class of 2016 will turn their rings 116 times.
The ring is turned towards the pinkie and a wish is made for that person. The last turn is done by somebody special.
The last turn is not towards the pinkie but towards the middle finger or towards the heart to lock in all the good wishes so that they come true.
