On Wednesday, Stephen was promoted from pre-k to kindergarten.  Instead of a ceremony, the class had fun playing outside with water and bubbles, and sand tables.  I spent time with Stephen's class while they were having their little party, and I was able to stand back and just watch Stephen for a little while (before he decided that he wanted to hang out with me instead of his friends).  Stephen isn't always able to interact with the other kids the way that he seems to want, because he isn't always able to communicate with them well, but he is ALWAYS in the middle of the action!

 This is Mrs. D - she was an aide in the class this year, and she is just wonderful.  Stephen loves her so much, and I know she loves him too.

 Mrs. K was a student teacher last year, and then stayed on as an aide this year.  Right after this picture was taken, Stephen knocked her over trying to give her a big hug.

 Mrs. M has been Stephen's teacher since he started school when he turned 3.  He was originally placed in a different class for this school year, but ended up back with Mrs. M because the other class was all-day pre-k, which was not what we wanted.  She is moving on to a new job next year, which is very unfortunate for all of the preschoolers and pre-k students who will come in for years to come.  She is very special.

 Stephen also got promoted at swim class!!!  Next month, he will officially be a "Ray."  And as you can see, there is still much fun to be had in doing "head bobs" and holding one's breath under water.

This has been a pretty exciting week for our little bear.  I'm excited to see what else the summer holds for him!