My colleagues think I’m crazy for saying this but I LOVE commencement speeches. It gives me the opportunity to think about my journey into teaching and the people who have inspired me along the way.

Today I would like to share 3 pieces of advice with my graduating Kindergarteners who are starting their own academic journeys:

1. Allow yourself to be curious and see things in new ways.
2. Always follow your dreams because it will lead you to your heart.
3. Do your best because effort of any size will help you grow.

To end my speech, I’d like to share with you one of my favorite student quotes from this year, which was shared after a discussion about fairness and feelings. A child raised his hand and said: “Teacher Joyce! My heart is the size of my head!”

I will miss you class of 2014. Live long & prosper.