By Karrie Meyers — Highlands Ranch, Colorado …“Will you choose to be the best picture of Jesus you can be?” asked Chris Morris, Littleton associate pastor, of Mile High Academy’s (MHA) eighth-grade graduates during their Oscar-themed graduation service on May 19.
Surrounded by family and friends, the ten graduates celebrated their achievements amidst smiles, laughter and tears. The families were welcomed by graduate Devon who thanked the parents “for all your love and support for these eighth graders. We could not have done it without your help.”
Through tributes, parents were recognized for their patience and love, coming to athletic events, supporting decisions, and for helping draw the students closer to God. Teachers and coaches were also acknowledged for their role-model support and hard work in providing an athletic program despite the middle school not having an official season.
The class selected Joshua 1:9 as their class verse, which led to them welcoming Pastor Morris as commencement speaker. He inspired the students to remember they are leaders and that “God rarely asks the leaders to do things within their capabilities.” He reminded them that God hasn’t called his leaders to fit in but to stand out, making Jesus the director in their lives.
Class president Jack reflected on the class and memories they made this year. “I’ve been so thankful to be a part of this class, and I think it’s been a great year – masks and all. So many people have had a part in making it such a great year, like our teachers who have been outstanding role models in supporting us through the ups and downs of the pandemic.”
“This has been a unique year,” explained Walter Weber, eighth-grade sponsor and middle school teacher. “We were never sure when a student would have to go remote due to family illness, making it difficult for teachers to teach [both] in-person and remote students at the same time. But this class resiliently faced and embraced the challenges. They are amazing individuals who will do great things in upper school. Speaking for the entire middle school teaching staff, we are so proud of them.”
In addition to the acknowledgement of their academic success, each graduate received a $500 upper school tuition scholarship.
The class presented a gift to the school. Now featured on the gym’s press box is Psalm 119:32 and the MHA Mustang logo. The verse was a favorite at MHA’s previous campus location and the class wanted to make it a part of MHA history once again.
The class appreciates their middle school memories while anxiously looking forward to the next chapter. Wyatt said he will miss the sports and his middle school friends, but is looking forward to making new friends. Max said a favorite memory he will forever take with him was the MHA mission trip to Uganda when he was in the sixth grade. “There’ve never been enough words to describe that amazing experience.” He will also miss playing on the small hoops on the school’s playground.
The eighth-grade graduating ceremony is available on MHA’s website at www.milehighacademy.org/2021-8-graduation/.
–Karrie Meyers communication director for Mile High Academy; photos by Dog Daze Photo and Kurt Fesler
