Graduation.  According to Merriam-Webster, the definition of graduation is the award or acceptance of an academic degree or diploma. Here is the link to the Hilo Intermediate School graduation.

In Hilo, the schools not only hold graduation ceremonies for colleges and high schools but also for middle school, elementary school, and preschool. Even though there isn’t an acceptance of a degree or diploma at the lower levels of education, the schools plan a program during which they send the students off in a celebratory way to the next level of schooling.

Friends give lei to each other.

Parents and extended families come and show their children love and support. So many parents get teary-eyed at these ceremonies thinking about how quickly time is passing and how soon their children will be leaving them. I’m not quite so sentimental. In fact, one of my friends asked me if I was freaking out because my children will both be in high school next year. I reflected for a while and came to the conclusion that I am not freaking out. In fact, I am enjoying watching my children grow up and get closer to being adults. Life is certainly changing and I am apprehensive about the things my children are facing. I just hope that the values and lessons my husband and I have taught them will stick with them as they make choices that will take them to the next step of their lives. I hope my children know that they will have the support of their parents as they find their way to a hopefully happy, successful, and independent future. Living Hilo Style.