Dozen kindergarteners graduate from Watersmeet

WATERSMEET - Pint-sized pomp and circumstance took the lead on Thursday as Watersmeet K-12 School celebrated its kindergarten graduation in the cafeteria.

Superintendent and Principal George R. Peterson, III provided the welcome, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance by the "Class of 2034."

James Williams Jr., tribal chairman of the Lac Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians, thanked teachers and noted the importance of education before leading the tribe's drum band in an honor song.

Music teacher Dan Mykkanen then directed the students in spirited renditions of "Wheels on the Bus" and "Mr. Ducky Wucky."

Peterson presented diplomas to each child, allowing time after each presentation for family members to take photos with the beaming kids.

Afterward, each student recited some of his or her favorite things.

"Hello, my name is Wynter Thayer, and my favorite color is purple," said one new graduate.

"My favorite food is candy," said James Sullivan, to the delight of the laughing audience.

"When I grow up. I want to be a ninja," said Kevonakii Thunder.

Kindergarten teacher Molly Allard offered closing remarks.

"It turned out to be a good year because of all the help we had," said Allard, who also teaches first grade and cited a list of people who contributed to the kindergarteners' education.

Executive assistant Roxanne Williams presented the class before the students filed out of the room, after which family and friends were invited to enjoy cake.

Remaining graduates were April Antone, Matthew Aschenbrenner, Charlotte Baldwin, Braelynn Bebeau, Trinity Caron, Samuel Chiochios, Michael Hazen, Quinton Kashich and Landon Williams.