Glet France – Farmington, New Mexico – La Vida Mission* (LVM) school joyfully gathered to celebrate the growth, resilience, and achievements of the Class of 2025 at its Recognition and Eighth-Grade Promotion program held at La Vida Mission Seventh-day Adventist Church in Farmington, New Mexico, May 22.
At the start of the program, Cielo Domino, LVM principal and head teacher, warmly welcomed all attendees with a heartfelt message. The students also presented a variety of performances—including singing, interpretative songs, and instrumental music—each delivered with creativity and genuine sincerity.
This was immediately followed by the presentation of certificates and awards to students in grades three through eight, recognizing their hard work and achievements throughout the school year. Dorie Panganiban, LVM Board Member, Tamara Peshlakai, program guest speaker, Kimberly Ellis, La Vida Mission director, and Steve Nelson, Rocky Mountain Conference district pastor, greeted the students as they received their respective awards on stage. Parents and guardians were also present to accompany their children at this celebration.
Following the first part of the program, the candidates for promotion marched down the aisle as they embarked on their completion rites. Students D’artagnan Smith and Drevin Yazzie completed their elementary years and were promoted to high school. Both students delivered speeches from their hearts, warmly reminiscing about the wonderful memories they had made during their time at La Vida.
Peshlakai reminded everyone that each person plays an important role in shaping and nurturing a student’s life. Families, teachers, and friends all work together to guide and support students as they grow academically, emotionally, and spiritually, helping to mold them into responsible and compassionate individuals.
She emphasized that every opportunity given should be carefully nurtured and used to inspire others to draw closer to God. As a meaningful close, Nelson offered a dedicatory prayer for the eighth-grade students, seeking blessings and guidance for their journey ahead. Upon the completion of the program, everyone enjoyed a delicious lunch thoughtfully prepared by the hardworking LVM cafeteria team.
“We wholeheartedly praise the Almighty God for leading our students, parents, teachers, and staff throughout this school year,” remarked Glet France, LVM middle school and music teacher. “We are looking forward to the next school year, embracing both its opportunities and challenges with trust and unwavering faith, confident that God will guide us every step of the way.”
* La Vida Mission is a supporting ministry of the Seventh-day Adventist Church but is not affiliated with the Rocky Mountain Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.
—Glet France is the middle school and music teacher at La Vida Mission. Photos supplied.
