Parents, family members, and friends, including Chattanooga Mayor Andy Berke, filled the gymnasium at Chambliss Center for Children Friday, for the Early Childhood Education Center’s Pre-K Graduation.
Every year Chambliss Center for Children’s Pre-K teachers coordinate an impressive graduation program to showcase all the children have learned while attending the center.
Dressed in blue caps and gowns, the children marched in and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Chattanooga Mayor Andy Berke followed by welcoming parents and family members, stressing how important it is for all children to have access to high-quality Early Childhood Education, and praising the work that Chambliss Center for Children does for children and families in this community.
"It's a highlight of my year being part of the graduation ceremony at Chambliss Center for Children,” said Mayor Berke. “Early learning programs shape a child's future, and Chambliss makes a difference for families every day. When you get kids off to the right start, you’re putting them in control of their lives for years and decades to come.”
Following his remarks, the children proceeded to sing songs, showing off their skills with letters, numbers and colors, and finally entertained attendees with a closing song and dance.
“This is one of our favorite events of the year,” said Kim Borrego, executive director of Extended Childcare Programs for Chambliss Center for Children. “It’s always so fun to see these little ones get excited to show off all they have learned, and it’s encouraging for us to know that they’re Kindergarten-ready and we’re setting them up for future success in school.”