Like most normal (i.e. British) people, my entire knowledge of the US education system comes from movies. And would you believe, they're 100% accurate! As if to underline this, the class's graduation song was set to Summer Lovin' from Grease! "Pre-K, we had a class. Pre-K, went by so fast..."
And, of course, it was all completely adorable. Parents ooo-ed and ahh-ed, teachers were in tears, children were rewarded with medals, certificates, and big bags of candy. America might not have the best education system in the world but it certainly puts on the best show, and that's far more important than actually learning anything useful (source: someone whose degree is in theology).
Oh yes, this is the real thing.
The graduands arrive!
Pete, contemplative and serious throughout. And why not? It's the most important day of his life ever.
A lot of coaching had gone into all this choreography, and it continued on the night.
Getting ready to deliver his inaugural lecture.
The class song. Like watching a miniature gospel choir.
The real heroes of this story! Teachers Miss Olga and Miss Samantha.
Now in possession of a medal, a piece of paper, and therefore an education.
Two products of the American system, and doing well for it.
