A day for diplomas and songs

The students of Precious Moments pre-school in Whitestone recently graduated in a celebration that honored their accomplishments as well as America.
Family and friends joined the students and staff on Tuesday, June 26 at the school located at 11-02 Clintonville Street. In front of red, white and blue decorations that honored America, the young graduates sang an array of songs and received their diplomas.
The first session, which began at 10 a.m., had 17 students, ages three to five, who sang tunes like “Grand Old School,” “Colors Song,” “I’m a Graduate” and “The Goodbye Song.” The second session, which began at 12:30 p.m., had 22 students, ages four to five. They sang songs like “My Country ‘Tis of Thee,” “God Bless America,” “This Old Man” and “Friends.” They had props to enhance the performance. Their little voices filled the whole room while pictures and video cameras captured the moment.
“I think it’s cute,” said Tiziana Ayed, mother of three-and-a-half-year-old Magda Ayed. “We all know the songs.”
Teachers, Ms. Debra, Ms. Karen, Ms. Lila, and Director Annette Vallone made commencement speeches and led the ceremony.
“We feel sadness about the children leaving but happiness that they’ve accomplished another chapter in their lives,” said Connie Teri, Co-Director of Precious Moments.
After the students received their diploma, they enjoyed refreshments with their families and the staff.