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Celebrating Growth and New Beginnings: LCDS Closing Ceremonies 2025
As the 2024–2025 school year came to a close, the halls, fields, and hearts of Loudoun Country Day School were filled with joy, pride, and a few well-earned tears. We came together as a community to honor three beautiful milestones—each marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of another in the lives of our Eagles. True to our mission—to inspire students to become lifelong learners, to think critically and creatively, and to lead with courage, compassion, and character—each ceremony reflected the heart of who we are as a school.
From Kindergarten to Grade 8, these celebrations were a reminder that at LCDS, students are known, loved, challenged, and supported every step of the way. And just as importantly, they leave with the values of respect, citizenship, responsibility, caring, fairness, and trustworthiness woven into their character.
Kindergarten “Earning Your Wings” Ceremony: Flying High!
Our youngest Eagles were the first to be honored in a ceremony that was pure LCDS magic—tender, joyful, and full of heart. With proud families watching, our Kindergarteners received their symbolic wings, recognizing the friendships they built, the confidence they discovered, and the curiosity they nurtured during their first full year at LCDS.
Mrs. Cross and Dr. Odell spoke with deep affection about each child’s unique spirit—their wonder, kindness, and bravery. In a world that can move too fast, this moment slowed things down to celebrate just how much can grow in one short year when children are given space to explore, dream, and belong. These little Eagles are ready to take flight, and we couldn’t be prouder.
Fifth Grade “Rise Up” Ceremony: Crossing the Bridge to Middle School
The Fifth Grade “Rise Up” Ceremony was a proud and symbolic passage from Lower School to Middle School. With the bridge on our stage as their backdrop, students crossed from the familiar into the new, cheered on by teachers, classmates, and family.
Mrs. Simmons and Mrs. Galvin offered warm reflections on the growth they’ve witnessed in these young leaders—their quiet determination, their emerging confidence, and the deep care they show for others. Whether continuing at LCDS or heading to a new school, our rising sixth graders left this ceremony knowing they are ready—not just academically, but emotionally, socially, and ethically—to take on new challenges and lead with heart.
Grade 8 Graduation: A Celebration of Legacy and Launch
And then, our final farewell: the Grade 8 Graduation Ceremony, a joyful and emotional send-off for a truly special group of students—the Class of 2025. Under the open sky, surrounded by teachers who have guided them and families who have cheered for them, our eighth graders stood ready to take their next big leap.
Dr. Odell’s personal tributes to each student were a highlight, capturing not just academic accomplishments but the stories behind the growth—the grit, the humor, the kindness, the courage. Our student-speaker looked back on shared memories, celebrated lasting friendships, and gave thanks for the LCDS community that helped shape them. With their diplomas in hand and a world of possibilities ahead, these Eagles soared into their futures with grace and confidence.
Always an Eagle
At LCDS, our closing ceremonies are not simply traditions—they are affirmations of all we stand for. These moments reflect what happens when students are seen for who they are and loved for who they’re becoming. Whether it’s a Kindergartener receiving their wings, a fifth grader rising up, or an eighth grader graduating, each student leaves knowing they are part of something bigger—a school that believes in them and a community that always will.
Congratulations to our students and families. Thank you for trusting us to walk this journey with you. You are all Eagles forever!
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We inspire our students to become lifelong learners, to think critically and creatively, and to lead with courage, compassion, and character.
