The End Of An Era...... The PS22 5th Grade Final Assembly Of 2007

It was an especially emotional graduation this year, saying goodbye to this fifth grade graduating class. The students at P.S.22 have had so many accomplishments throughout the years, but this was indeed a standout group of kids. We will miss them immensely.

And the emotionalism of the day was compounded by the fact that we are also saying goodbye to our dynamic principal, Mrs. Karina Costantino, who is moving on to become a district superintendent in Brooklyn.

The chorus and I are particularly sad to see Mrs. Costantino leave, because she has been an ardent supporter of the arts, and the chorus's self-proclaimed #1 fan. It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to Mrs. Costantino, but we know she will go on to do more good for the community, only now on a much larger scale. We know she will be met with the same love and respect in her new position that she has earned for herself as principal of P.S.22.


But the mood wasn't all somber. In addition to being a time of reflection, this year's graduation also proved to be a joyous celebration of accomplishments!

The PS22 chorus provided 2 upbeat farewell numbers that would leave everybody "Bouncing Off Clouds!" Eric and the chorus also reminded us that even though big changes are to come, "I Will Survive!"

We also had the pleasure of welcoming back Jasmine, our distinguished graduate, who left P.S.22 only 5 years ago to become the president and C.E.O. of her own line of all-natural hair and skin products, EDEN Bodyworks! Jasmine has appeared on Oprah, Donny Deutch, and Nightline, as one of the most prominent in a new wave of young entrepeneurs in America! You can check out Jasmine's unbelievable accomplishment in establishing her vision, as well as her appearances on the aforementioned television shows on her website, Eden Bodyworks. We thank Jasmine for attending this year's final assembly, and for giving our graduates a speech that was truly inspiring. We were also duly honored to hear that she attributes much of her success to some core values she learned at P.S.22. Jasmine, you are a wonderful role model to all -- we are so proud of you.



Then it was time for the entire 5th grade class to sing their graduation songs. First, Tyrell rocked the house with his rendition of the P.S.22 rap! His upbeat performance had the whole audience clapping along joyfully!



Chaylene and Zaudita made a beautiful speech, dedicating our farewell song, Josh Groban's "You Raise Me Up", to Mrs. Costantino. Mariama belted out the solo and moved everyone to tears and thunderous applause.

CONGRATS TO THE CHORUS, MRS. COSTANTINO, AND TO ALL OF THIS YEAR'S 5th GRADE GRADUATES!!