Sunday, 12th of May, 2024

Saint Joseph School sadly but proudly said goodbye to nine graduates.  They are:

Ashylynn Gray

Eleanor Joiner

Jocelynn Joiner

Cristian Martinez

Kyla McCormick

Brooklyn Reynolds

Ayla Ritchie

Lexi Steele

Lexi Thomas

Below is Mrs. Cami Thomas' final speech to them, delivered at the end of Mass.

First, I would like to wish a Happy Mother’s Day to all mother here today.  There isn’t anything better than watching our children accomplish milestone, and today marks another milestone for our Eighth-grade students.

Ladies and Cristian,you are on the threshold of one of life’s many adventures and challenges. It seems like yesterday most of you were coming through the doors of Saint Joseph School as kindergarteners, and now look at you! Gone are the pigtails and baby faces, and sitting here today are eight young ladies and one young man. Some of you have spent nine years here, and some of you joined us a little later.  Now you are all ready to begin high school.

Cristian, I remember you joining the girls the fourth-grade year. It was a rough year for you, and I kept telling you, give it a couple of years and you will be just fine. Look at you now! I’m not sure who needs whom more.  You either halt the girl’s ideas or you are joining right along with them, causing havoc.

Lexi Steel, you will begin your high school career in not only a new school but also a new place. Just remember, God always has a plan, and to every end there is a new beginning. Embrace this change and let it lead you to bigger and better opportunities. Even though we will miss you, you will do great at Saint Thomas Aquinas in Kansas City. And I’m sure there will be some road trips in the future!

I know without a doubt you will all succeed and flourish.  Let’s face it, with your determination and stubbornness, there are no hurdles that you can’t overcome. Continue to nurture

the friendships you have made here, look forward to the new friendships you will make, and always love your friends through the ups and downs. How good a friend you were will always be remembered.

To all of you, rely on your faith, and trust in God always.  Congratulations!

Below are some photos taken right after the last student Mass on Friday.  In many ways, this is the real end of their time at Saint Joseph as students and always very emotional.