First of all....I had never stepped foot on the floor of the Arena. (I am a teacher. We can only afford seats in the nose-bleed section when we go to events at that venue.) Not only did I step foot on the floor, but I conducted the choir in front of thousands of people. One of the graduating seniors captured 26 seconds of the National Anthem as it was being broadcast via the Jumbotron. She was not supposed to have her cell phone on her person, but I'm glad she did. Now I have 26 seconds of a rather big deal in my little life.
Secondly, we were required to dress in full academic regalia. I have blogged about this hood-thing before, but let me say it again. I waited 22 years for my Master's hood and finally got it this year. Had I not left elementary music and made the switch to high school, I would still be waiting on the elusive hood.
I was getting married 3 months after graduating from my Master's program in 1992. I did not have $250 to purchase the hood so I could walk in the graduation ceremony. I apologized to my mom who was very disappointed (but understood my predicament) and moved on. I told her it would just be a dust-collector in a bottom drawer somewhere and closed that chapter of my life. There were many times that I regretted that decision, but I really had no choice in the matter.
Earlier this year, my principal informed us that every faculty member was expected to attend graduation in their full regalia. The same thought crossed my mind again. How would I pay for the hood the second time around? Long story short...Herff-Jones supplied each of us with our regalia "up to the highest degree conferred" and I proudly swagged my way out onto the floor of the Arena and conducted in it! It was one of the greatest moments of my life. I waited 22 years for that moment and it didn't cost me a dime. I don't know who paid for my regalia, but I am forever indebted to them. Thank you!!
Fletcher Senior High School Chorus
Commencement - 2014
Until next time...
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