The Next 8th Grade

Graduation is right around the corner.  After that, you are the new eighth graders.  While you may not realize it, being the most senior class in the school carries a tremendous responsibility.  Every class, from the 7^th to the kindergarten is looking to you for direction and as role models. 

Even though the school has been around for over a hundred years, the culture and personality of the school is determined first and foremost by the students.  And the group of students with the greatest amount of influence is the eighth grade.  You will set the tone for the entire 2013-2014 school year.

I believe in the idea that we our responsibility to make whatever it is we start better when we leave.  That should apply to everything we do in life.  If you happen to agree with me, your responsibilities as an eighth grader just increase.  You have made the school, teachers, and parents proud for the previous 8 years, so I know you are up to the challenge. 

It is also time to have fun.  Your eighth grade year should be your best.  You have reached the top of the pile

and it is time to enjoy the view.  You have worked hard to get here and should enjoy the privileges of being the most senior class.

What are you looking forward to the most as you enter eighth grade?  What tone do you want to set for the rest of the school and how will you do it?  What will you do, both individually and as a class, during the next year to make St. Joe’s better?  

The Holidays of May

May is full of holidays and special days.  Throughout the month you have May Day to Memorial Day.  There are holidays for mothers, workers, and teachers.  It can be a festive month which also marks the end of the school year.  From start to finish, below are some notable special days:

May 1 – May Day

Celebrated as the unofficial start of spring, festivals and parades are common across the globe.  The use of flowers and the May pole are traditions.

May 1 – International Worker’s Day

To commemorate the 1886 Haymakers’ affair in Chicago, over 80 countries observe the 1^st of May as a national holiday to celebrate the workers.  The Haymakers were able to secure an eight hour workday and improve the safety and treatment of the workers.  Over the years the activities have been led by socialist, communist or anarchist groups.  The original intent was to recognize the rights of the workers and their safety and financial security.  Unfortunately, the day has also been full of riots and destructive parades.  In Seattle this year 17 people were arrested for various reasons including the destruction of property when someone through a skateboard through a Walgreen window.  8 police officers were injured as they attempted to break up the anarchy.  These often violent protests have occurred in many places annually. 

May 5 – Cinco de Mayo

 

Possibly the most misunderstood holiday.  Most Americans assume Cinco de Mayo is the celebration of Mexico’s independence.  They are all wrong.  The national holiday in Mexico recognizing their independence is September 16^th.  Cinco de Mayo is not even a national holiday in Mexico.  It is primarily celebrated in the province of Puebla.  In 1862 the French decided to invade Mexico and make it a territory.  Before the French made their way to Mexico City, they met a ragtag group of Mexican citizens which fought and defeated the superior troops. 

While the town of Puebla commemorates the day, it is not a big holiday throughout Mexico.  The commercialization as well as a tie into the Civil War has elevated this holiday in the United States. 

May 7^th – National Teachers Day

It is not a national holiday, but more of a day to recognize the people who take on the profession of educating the youth of our country.  I personally do not need a day of recognition.  Working with all of you each day is all the thanks I need. 

May 9 – The Ascension of Jesus

40 days after the resurrection of Jesus, we celebrate His Ascension into heaven.  The description of the Ascension can be found in Luke 24:50-53 and Mark 16:19.  A more detailed description can be found in Acts of the Apostles 1:9-11.

May 12^th – Mother’s Day

Circle this day on your calendar each year.  Our mothers do more for each of us than we could ever imagine.  They are your biggest fan.  They work tirelessly to provide you with a great life.  They are selfless, generous, caring, and deserve to be celebrated every day of the year.  Make certain to give your mom something special to let her know how much you love and appreciate her.  Make sure you give her a hug and tell her you love her. 

May 18 – Armed Forces Day

This is a day to thank the members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps for their patriotic support and defense of our nation.  The day was initiated by President Harry S. Truman.  

May 19 – Pentecost

This is a Catholic holiday celebrating the gift of the Holy Spirit to the disciples of Jesus. 

May 27 – Memorial Day

The national holiday was originally designated to honor the men and women who have died in defense of our country.  It started soon after the end of the Civil War to recognize the price paid by both Union and Confederate soldiers.  It has since been expanded to all men and women who have given their lives in defense of our country.  People have taken this time of remembrance to honor any loved one who has passed, regardless of military service.  Loved ones visit cemeteries and bring flowers or other mementos.  The decoration of our national cemeteries is remarkable.

As you can read, May has a holiday for everyone.  Which May holiday do you enjoy the most?  Do you have any special traditions with any holidays above?  Were you surprised by any of the holidays?  If you could create a holiday, what would it be and why?