Pre-school grads

Axel Bolter, Torin Thompson, and Isabella Clinton sing for friends and family during graduation Thursday.

Thirty-eight students proved they are ready for kindergarten by graduating from preschool Thursday.

West End Elementary Principal Jerry Hilfer congratulated the youngsters on their accomplishment and encouraged them to do well as they enter their school years.

“Be ready to learn,” he said.

To celebrate the school year, graduates sang a medley of childrens songs to entertain their family and friends.

Teacher Missy Walls extended her appreciation to parents and family members who shared their children with her Mandy Baron, who also teaches preschool.

“I always get emotional at these programs,” Walls said.

However, because of the grade reconfiguration, Walls added she was looking forward to being in the same school as kindergarten students, and that she looked forward to seeing them next fall.

The program concluded with a diploma presented to each graduate and a round of applause from a sea of the preschooler’s proud loved ones.

For more photos, pick up today's edition of The Journal.