After crossing the stage to receive their diplomas, most of the kindergartners elected to walk down the stairs, but some chose to jump off the side of the stage.
Nevis Public School’s class of 2037 graduated in a ceremony in the gym on Wednesday, May 21.
After the kindergartners were seated, kicking their legs and waving at the audience, Nevis Superintendent Gregg Parks opened the ceremony with a speech. He said kindergarten will be the first milestone in the students’ Nevis education journey.
“Yes, it will eventually include harder subjects than recess and lunch and gym,” Parks said, addressing the students. “They’ll eventually take on things like algebra and economics. But don’t worry, not today.”
Alex Haddon / Enterprise
The students then sang “B-I-N-G-O,” “I Can’t Spell Hippopotamus” and “You Are My Sunshine.” After the performance, they remained standing because no one told them to sit back down. Kindergarten teacher Jason Durham noticed part way into his speech and asked them to sit, but several students had to be convinced.
Durham encouraged parents to slow down and appreciate their time with their children.
“I know you’re excited for all of these milestones to occur, but stay in the moment,” he said.
Teacher Wendy McGillivray-Bjorklund said wonders are everywhere in kindergarten.
“Did you notice the puddles as you came in? You might not have because you’re a grown up, but I guarantee you, the kinders did,” she said. “I watched them as we came from one hallway to the other, some splashed right through, and others hopped and skipped around it.”
She said students surprising her with their reactions is what makes her job fun.
Then, the kindergartners received their diplomas and paused for pictures. The ceremony finished with a reception with cake.
Alex Haddon has been a multimedia reporter with the Park Rapids Enterprise since May 2025. You can reach her at 218-237-1823 or ahaddon@parkrapidsenterprise.com.
