Grade 1-5 closing with musical performance and farewell retiring staff

On June 14, Selwyn House School celebrated the Elementary School students in Grades 1-5 and held a concert to mark the end of the school year and the start of summer. They sang, cheered, and played drums, xylophones, and ukuleles, showcasing their musical talents. It was a joyous occasion for friends and family who attended. We are proud of the students' hard work and wish them and their families a happy summer.

 

The closing ceremony this year was truly special. Head of Elementary School Kathy Funamoto is retiring after dedicating 44 years of her life to the school, and to show appreciation for the departing staff, she planned some surprises. The ceremony began with a special Thunderbird-themed surprise for Mr. Simard, who is retiring after serving the school for 27 years. Ms. Funamoto arranged for students who would have been taught by Mr. Simard in Grade 2 and are graduating this year to present him with a Sash and Thunderbird hat. Ms. Funamoto also surprised the whole Elementary School staff, thanking them with literal fireworks in Coristine Hall. She praised them with a photo montage of all the amazing things they do for the school. The departing staff, including Ashley Waggoner, Catherine Gagnon, Chantal Simard, Evi Pachis, Jean Pruneau, and Lenny Dion, received kind words from the students they've positively influenced over the years.

 

In return, the staff surprised Mrs. Funamoto with a special rendition of Fireworks by Katy Perry, with Kathy-inspired re-written lyrics by Elementary School teacher Mme Blais and learning strategist Mme Pachis, sung by staff who wished to participate. Saying goodbye to many long-time school members was a mixture of emotions. Although it was sad to see them go, we were also happy to wish them luck on their new varied and exciting journeys.