Marti Champion, Head of Middle School
This year’s theme, which has been prominently displayed on the first page of your planners, is one of my favorites. Tell me who you walk with and I will tell you who you are. This is the message I shared last year with the class of 2023 as they crossed this very stage. This Mexican proverb speaks volumes in so many ways. What I said to them then, I share with you now, “As you leave this place called Graland Country Day School, be mindful of the company you keep. In high school, you will meet people from different backgrounds, with diverse perspectives, and varying levels of wisdom and experiences. Engage. Make sure you surround yourself with people who embody the qualities you aspire to possess. Choose friends who will challenge you, uplift you, and inspire you to become the best version of yourself. Seek mentors who will guide you, friends who will inspire you, and companions who will support you in high school.”
But rather than simply recycle last year’s message, I’d like to unpack a specific portion of the message based on the proverb. Choose friends who will inspire you to become the best version of yourself. Or better yet, be your best self. Don’t wait for those who surround you to remind you of who you are. Embrace your individuality and engage authentically. As you move forward, own your unique qualities and pursue your passions with dedication and enthusiasm. Whether it’s through academics, extracurricular activities, or personal endeavors, there are new opportunities waiting to be conquered. Take advantage of these opportunities and the challenges that may come with them. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. As I noted earlier, those you walk with, the mentors who guide you, the friends who inspire you, and the companions you support are on this journey with you. But by all means, do not forget to show up as your best self.
High school is a time to learn, to grow, and to become the best version of yourself. As you embark on this next phase, believe in yourself and your abilities. Trust in yourself to make a positive impact, both in your life and in the rapidly changing world around you. Your future is what you make it, and I have no doubt that each and every one of you, yes, each and every one, will go on to accomplish amazing things, especially if you show up as your best self.
Now, I will say what have become my parting words to each graduating class. Sawubona (sah-woo-bone-ah). I see you. I see your personality. I see your humanity. I see your dignity. As an educator, I am in the precious position of working with young people who possess many unique qualities, needs, and dreams. I see you. I see you as a complex young person trying to find their way as a student, friend, and family member. You are enough, and you have so much to offer those whose paths you’ll cross in your lifetime. I see you.
Here’s to a good summer and a whole new adventure called high school. I believe in each one of you, and I look forward to hearing about the remarkable young people you become. Good luck.
Graland Country Day School
Graland Country Day School is a private school in Denver, Colorado, serving students in preschool, kindergarten, elementary, and middle school. Founded in Denver in 1927, Graland incorporates a rich, experiential learning approach in a traditional classroom setting, emphasizing the development of globally and socially conscious leaders who excel academically.
