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Enjoy your summer, and THANK YOU!

You Guys...I could hardly sleep last night after seeing your final projects. You blew me away! I am beyond proud of each of you, and I bet your parents are too. You are so talented and creative! And you are also so kind and hardworking. Hannah E, I saw the way you encouraged Abby through her song. You are a wonderful friend. Hannah D., your confidence and kindness set the foundation for the whole event. Thank you for all you did for us. I loved hearing the Mash-up of our songs, Rowan! Honestly,  that was the best I've ever heard you sing. And Abby, WAY TO GO! You conquered a fear beautifully yesterday! Hannah D. and Hannah B. you both created a memory that will bring you joy all the years of your life, and that's a blessing to all of us! John, thanks for cracking us up with your video- I knew you'd have something in store for us, and I wasn't disappointed. :) Mark, WOW. I hope your parents enjoyed seeing this creative side of you. I know the rest of us did. I look forward to seeing you perform professionally some day. Eli and Clary- invite me to your book signings. You have messages for the rest of us, and I can't wait to read them. Hannah E., Jasmine, Ally, and Shiloh- your photography is more than a hobby. It captures moments--stories--that bring beauty into the eyes of those who see them. Keep capturing beauty. We can all use more of that in our world. Jackson, you have managed to merge your creativity with technology in a very smart way. I am constantly in awe of your brilliance. Skylar--your art is creative, spunky, and brimming with stories--just like you. Keep going, girl. Luke, you blessed us and your parents yesterday with a message to never quit. Thank you for that. I couldn't have said it better.

I am sad to see some of you leave our classes, but I know you have wonderful journeys ahead of you. I have loved working with you this past year, and I hope you realized that history and English classes can be fun. Words can change the world. But more so, I hope that you all learned that you have gifts and talents and ideas and grit. It's been a joy to see you all flourish. Keep in touch! I'd love to hear about your next journey and project.

And for those returning next year, I've got some great books picked out! I can't wait!

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