Graduation-Part 1

Last night our son, Garrett, graduated from the 8th grade.

Brazilian schools are different from schools in the US.  There are only 11 grades, instead of 12.  Usually they have a graduation ceremony from the 8th grade before they enter their three years of high school.  (Lest you think that the schools are easier because there are only 11 grades - that's not the case.  They cram all the typical high school learning, and more, into those 11 years.  It is very difficult.)

In his school there were 4 different "turmas" or groups from the 8th grade that graduated. Last night each group walked in with their main teacher (they have lots of different teachers as they have a college type schedule). I guess you would describe her as their home room teacher.

I loved how they walked in as a group, holding hands.

One of the things we also love about Brasilian schools is the affection they show to their students. You'll see, in the video below, various teachers hugging and giving a kiss to Garrett as he received his diploma.

This was his first year at this school. It's a great school. We love it and we are so happy he's made lots of good friends.

Here are some pics and a video of our graduate's night.

 This is Garrett with his best friend Elias and his family.

Of course we had to get some family pics with the graduate.

With a family our size it's not possible to ever get a decent picture on the first try. Funny thing is it's not always the little ones that mess up getting a decent picture. Sometimes they have help.