Middle school graduation speeches should, perhaps, be based on the slogan of an Irish political party. It says, “Lots done, lots more to do.”
Middle school graduation speeches are, you see, aimed at students in transition. They are finished Junior High and now you move on to the next stage of their education. So they have already learnt lots but of course they have a long way to go yet. It’s unlikely that such students a re all jumping up and down with excitement saying “Whoopee more school” but the speeches should point out that they are becoming mature enough to appreciate the importance of education and the difference it can make in their lives. Middle school graduation speeches should emphasise the fact that the students are now becoming adults with everything that implies.
Middle school graduation speeches are celebrating what the students have done so far. They should include a warm welcome to the parents and guests at the event. They should emphasise the fact that parents are proud of what their children have achieved. . Middle school graduation speeches should give students some helpful hints for their future lives. They might, for instance, suggest that the students show appreciation, firstly to their parents and teachers but all through life. Middle school graduation speeches might emphasise that courtesy costs nothing and brings its own rewards.
Middle school graduation speeches should include a mention of the school in question and of its ethos. They should be personal to the particular students and mention their accomplishments since coming to the school. It might be that they have taken part in a jazz festival or put on a show of some kind. It could be that they have done a project about the third world or raised funds for an orphanage. Middle school graduation speeches should show that the speaker has done his or her homework about the students in question. If the speaker is a member of the school staff that should not be difficult. Alternatively, a guest speaker should consult staff about the talents and activities of the students in question. Obviously such a guest speaker should speak of his or her own experiences and have something motivational to say. The students, after all, are at an age where they will be starting to consider their future. That will not, of course, prevent them from having a night on the town to celebrate their graduation.
It goes without saying that such speeches should have a touch of humour because that will be remembered by the graduates. In fact if you can give good advice in a humorous vein it is much more likely to be remembered by the graduates. So the real secret of good middle school graduation speeches is to leave them laughing and thinking and with your best wishes.
