Under brilliant blue skies, punctuated by a soft breeze, 67 Hugh Cole Elementary School students received their hard-earned certificates during outdoor graduation exercises Monday morning. It was a special moment for the dedicated, wide-eyed students, many of which will now move forward to the Kickemuit Middle School in the fall.

Heading up the speaking program were principal Colin Grimsey and assistant principal Joao Arruda. Both offered encouraging remarks about these students and the next steps they will now take in their young lives.
Arruda, who arrived at Hugh Cole School last fall, admittedly has enjoyed his new role as assistant principal and had a clear message for all of the graduates during his main address.

“I would like to say directly to our graduates, congratulations,” he announced. “You have made it here today, despite all of the challenges we have had to deal with in our world over the past few years, but we are not there to talk about that today. Today, we are here to celebrate you, the outstanding men and women seated before us.”

He continued, “In thinking about how you all will move forward, I ask that you do so with a kind heart, a good work ethic, and a positive outlook. Three simple things, coupled with you being responsible and respectful, will allow you to move forward, be successful and most importantly, be happy. By showing respect and being responsible, we can make our school, our homes, and our communities better places. Remember, every small act of kindness and responsibility counts. Together, we can create a positive and supportive environment for everyone.”

There was also a choral interlude by a number of the graduates, which helped make the morning’s activities extremely enjoyable.