Suzanne and Hovsep Hagopian Saturday school celebrated their annual end of the year Hantes and Graduation last Saturday, May 11th. It’s hard to believe the school year has come to an end, however, the Hantes and Graduation ceremony presented a beautiful culmination of the students’ and teachers’ hard work this year.
To begin the Hantes, our Nursery/Pre-K and Kindergarten students recited a beautiful potpourri of poetry and sang songs including “Ov Em Yes” and “Ա,Բ,Գ”. The seven Kindergarten graduates were then presented with their diplomas. We are so proud of their growth and accomplishments this year and excitedly anticipate their return in the fall as they become 1st graders.
Next, our older group of students each took turns, class by class, to present their poetry. Each class recited poetry about their deep appreciation and pride in learning their mother tongue, Armenian.
A highlight of their performance was the 5th and 6th grade Western classes reciting the extremely moving lyrics to the song “Yes Im Anoush Hayasdani” by Yeghishe Charents. Following their recitation, the entire group began to sing the 1st verse of this beautiful song. It was a moving presentation. With the musical direction from Ms. Debbie Agopian and Mr. Vahn Mouradian, the students wonderfully sang a medley of songs that touched all of our hearts.
Next, our 6th grade Graduates read their graduation speeches which highlighted their wonderful experiences here at our Saturday school and acknowledged all of their teachers who served as important Armenian role models during their time at our school.
The two graduates, Anita Nenejian, and Nareen Bedrossian then accepted their diplomas and bid a final farewell to their school. Eva Bezdikian was also a 6th grade graduate this year and we are so very proud of our graduates and wish them continued success in their Armenian studies. We are excited to watch them grow into young Armenian adults and hope they continue to be a part of their Armenian community in meaningful and important ways.
Last year, our school sadly said goodbye to two very important members of our team. Mrs. Zepuir Ardzivian and Mrs. Aikouhi Megerian have both served as the music directors for a number of years. With their musical direction, enthusiasm, and warmth the children of our school flourished,learned traditional Armenian songs, and performed beautifully during countless hantes’. During our Hantes, the school wanted to formally thank and honor these two vital women for their dedication to our school and we wish them the best in this new chapter of their lives.
Our school’s PTA also wanted to thank and honor two very special ladies who continuously support our school. Mrs. Vicky Hagobian and Mrs. Nayda Voskerijian were then acknowledged for their unwavering support as they both serve as members of the Educational Committee and work towards bettering the school.
As the 2023-2024 school year officially comes to end, Fr. Nareg, along with the school’s Educational Committee announced a change in the school team.
To conclude the Hantes, it was announced that Yn. Annie Terterian will be the new principal.
The new team is excitedly planning and organizing for next year and wishes our entire school community a happy and healthy summer!