"MPE Prepares for 2004 Graduation"

By Shanxi Upsdell

Unlike some previous graduation meetings, the Midwest Parent Educators’ first graduation meeting for the Class of 2004 finished in one hour.

For parents who still remember three-hour meetings, this was a welcome surprise.

“You may have heard stories about how long these meetings can take,” said Dan Wolgemuth, co-coordinator for the graduation.

“That won’t happen tonight.”

Preparation for the 2004 graduation ceremony officially started at the Olathe Fellowship Baptist Church, Sept. 22.

Graduation history

From the meeting’s beginning, handouts to the graduates clearly defined the graduation ceremony’s mission.

“Our prayer is that in all that we do, all that we say and in every attitude of our heart, we would bring glory to God,” the purpose statement read.

The handout also specified the date for the graduation ceremony, which will be at the College Church of the Nazarene, May 28.

The church had hosted the 2003 graduation ceremony, which required a huge seating capacity for the event.

However, the present graduation ceremony promises to be even larger, with the list of graduates stretching to 50 names.

“This is the biggest class we’ve ever had,” said Mr. Wolgemuth.

From only six graduates in the class of 1993, the graduation ceremonies have grown significantly.

However, the graduation ceremonies focus on individual graduates and their home schools rather than the entire class, said Mei Upsdell, office manager.

“Public schools don’t personalize graduations like we do,” she said.

Future items

At the meeting, Mr. Wolgemuth also commented on the separate committees formed for next year’s graduation.

“Our strategy is divide and conquer,” said Mr. Wolgemuth.

With each committee focused on specific items like music, refreshments or programs, the preparation for graduation divides into several categories.

Upsdell said the committees were critical for the ceremony’s preparation.

“The people who serve on the committees make the graduation a success,” she said.

The next meeting will occur at the same church Oct. 27, with several items to resolve.

While Chris Tann, senior, has been selected the class treasurer, officers for the remaining positions must be elected at the next meeting.

Mr. Wolgemuth said if numerous candidates apply for one position, candidates should be prepared to campaign with speeches about why they should be elected.

“Bring brownies – anything that you feel would help others vote for you!” he joked.

The other item to discuss is the class motto, which is still to be determined.

As the meeting finished, Mr. Wolgemuth emphasized the overall objective of the graduation ceremony and preparation.

“Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God,” he said, quoting 1 Corinthians 10:31.

“In everything, including the process of getting ready for graduation, let’s honor the Father.”

Like to get involved?

Graduates are encouraged to e-mail any possible class mottos to Mary Wolgemuth, co-coordinator for the graduation.

Absentee parents and graduates who would like to volunteer for the committees may also e-mail Mrs. Wolgemuth.

Her e-mail address is kcwolgies@aol.com. 

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