7th Grade Ring Ceremony Celebrates the Theme of Friendship

Each year, Lacordaire’s 7th grade class selects a theme for their Ring Ceremony, when students receive their Lacordaire Middle School class rings. This year, the students collectively chose the theme of friendship, a choice that reflects the close-knit culture of the Lacordaire community.

 

The ceremony focused on the bonds students have formed with one another, as well as the relationships between students and faculty that shape their middle school experience. In honor of this year’s theme, the 7th grade dedicated the ceremony to French teacher Mr. De Toustain, whose connection with students has made him a valued presence in the school.

 

During the ceremony, student Gavin Belicose '27 shared remarks about the importance of friendship and the impact of Mr. De Toustain’s support. “In the spirit of friendship, I'd like to thank Mr. De Toustain for being someone that I can look up to,” Belicose said.

 

Belicose also spoke about the high standards Mr. De Toustain sets in the classroom, along with the respect and encouragement he shows students each day. “Mr. De Toustain pushes us to work hard every day, not because he has to but because he knows what we're capable of. He listens to us, supports us, and treats us with respect, making the classroom not just a place to learn but a community,” he said.

 

Belicose emphasized that friendship goes beyond simply enjoying time together. “Friendship isn't just about having fun together, it's about learning together, growing together, and supporting each other,” he said.

 

As students received their class rings, the ceremony marked an important moment in their middle school journey and celebrated the relationships that have helped shape their experience at Lacordaire. Belicose closed by expressing gratitude for the school and the community around him. “This school has given us more than just an education, and I will forever be thankful,” he said.