The stage is set, and we are ready to celebrate the Class of 2026. The graduation ceremony will start at 7:00 this evening. Doors will open at 6:00 for those planning to attend.

Here's to the GES Class of 2026!
6 months ago, Robin Becker
It's Match Day! Kayne takes to the course at Kokopelli Golf Club in Marion for the Boys’ State Golf Tournament.

Tee it up, Bulldog STRONG!
6 months ago, Robin Becker
On this Graduation Eve, we shine our spotlight on the Class of 2026. Enjoy this picture walk down Memory Lane.
6 months ago, Robin Becker
Then and now — chasing dreams with courage.
6 months ago, Robin Becker
Then and now — ready to explore, ready to lead.
6 months ago, Robin Becker
Then and now — quietly shaping the world around him.
6 months ago, Robin Becker
Then and now — leadership in the making.
6 months ago, Robin Becker
Then and now — making moves on the court and in life.
6 months ago, Robin Becker
Then and now — quiet beginnings, confident strides.
6 months ago, Robin Becker
Then and now — full of potential, ready to soar.
6 months ago, Robin Becker
Then and now — strong hands, strong heart, strong will.
6 months ago, Robin Becker
Then and now — fearless, fiery, and full of heart.
6 months ago, Robin Becker
Then and now — steady heart, strong spirit.
6 months ago, Robin Becker
It's Race Day!

This morning, our Girls on the Run participants will take on their end-of-season 5K at Ballpark Village, a celebration of growth, perseverance, and joy. Each season concludes with this event, giving every girl a chance to experience the pride that comes from setting a goal and crossing the finish line. No matter their pace, every participant finishes with confidence and carries that sense of accomplishment with them long after the race is over.

Girls on the Run - STRONG in heart. STRONG in stride.
6 months ago, Robin Becker
Then and now — resilient, remarkable, ready.
6 months ago, Robin Becker
Then and now — a new chapter, same love for reading.
6 months ago, Robin Becker
Then and now — bold enough to make a difference.
6 months ago, Robin Becker
Then and now — kindness that never changed.
6 months ago, Robin Becker
Then and now — from tiny backpacks to big goals.
6 months ago, Robin Becker
In this season, many of us---adults and children---are carrying a lot. This is a good time to pause and practice giving grace to one another. Grace reminds us to slow down, assume positive intentions, and respond with patience rather than reaction.

One of my favorite lines from a podcast I’ve been listening to recently is: “He’s a good kid having a hard time.” This mindset shifts us from "What’s wrong with you?" to “What do you need right now?"

What giving grace looks like:
Young children: knowing that big feelings are okay and understanding they have limited words to convey their feelings and needs.
Elementary years: knowing emotional ups and downs are part of development; it’s just where they are.
Middle school: expecting strong emotions, challenges figuring out who they are, and increased stress that comes with this age.

How we can practice at home:
Pause before correcting or reacting.
Separate the child from the behavior. She’s not irresponsible. She forgot her lunchbox. He’s not a bad kid. He struggled through that moment.

Grace doesn’t remove expectations---it helps children meet the expectations with support, understanding, and compassion.
6 months ago, Robin Becker