Last Bell

Today I had the privilege of going to the "Last Bell" ceremony at the orphanage. The majority of the kids go to school at the orphanage because they were considered too far behind to be in regular school. So they live, eat and go to school with each other. The last day of school is called an actual holiday here and in other countries on this side of the world and is a big celebration. Every student dresses in black and white, prepares songs and poems, marches in with the flag and has to listen to big speeches from notables around the city/country. Here was no different, with all of the notables giving their wishes and congratulations to the graduating ninth class(most going on to trade school at the ages of anywhere between 14 and 17). It was interesting listening to all of the grand speeches, while knowing how little is actually done for these kids. Still, all in all, I was thankful that I could be there for this special day for the kids.

The banner says, "Final Bell!" in Ukrainian




The famous poofy white bows that the girls wear for the first and last days of school

A couple of the boys that I've gotten to know and spend time with