Tonight, I will attend my third child's 8th grade graduation. It seems that everyone around us always makes a huge deal out of it, going so far as to plan parties and dinners and buy expensive "graduation" gifts. I admit that I bought my daughter a new dress and shoes for the event, but nothing super expensive. Some people have spent hundreds of dollars on dresses, suits, manicures/pedicures, and professionally done hair and make-up.
Is it bad that I think 8th grade graduation is silly? In my mind, you're passing from one grade to the next. While growing up, I attended a middle school that consisted of 7th-9th grades. I'd never heard of an 8th grade promotion. In my house, passing 8th grade is a given. Not completing all twelve years of school simply isn't an option. The grandeur is saved for high school graduation. That's when your child has truly accomplished something special that deserves a party and nice gifts.
Don't get me wrong. Our family is going to attend and wish her well, etc. We support all of our children in all that they do.
I hope I'm not being too cynical and harsh. Does completing eighth grade signify the end of childhood and is it worthy of being marked with a great big exclamation point?
Jana Haren, Realtor, MSSC
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