Our 8th graders had a wonderful opportunity to sponsor the naturalization ceremony in downtown San Diego yesterday. Their presentations (you can listen to them below) were amazing. We started off the day by arriving at Golden Hall at 8:00am and the students helped by ushering in all the the new citizens and helping them find their seat. They were even asked at the last second if they would be willing to sing the national anthem in front of the crowd. A few practices later, they stood on the stage and sang a very nice rendition of the Star Spangled Banner. A few minutes later, each and every one of them confidently stood up in front of more than 500 new citizens (from 69 different countries!) and delivered well prepared and meaningful speeches. It was a great experience for us all!
Listen to the Naturalization Ceremony Speeches (WAV Format)
My Grandparents by Cole
Life of an Immigrant by Ilkin
How I Became a Citizen by Zeya
My Family History by Taylor
Importance of Immigrants by Tripp
The Importance of Voting by Sophie
My Great Grandma’s Journey by Isabelle
Your Right to Vote by Ella
To Dora and Jacob by Elisa
America the Great by Aaron
Life in Turkey by Burak
It was acually a very fun experience, after you got over the 500 people who were staring at you!!!
Singing the Star Spangled Banner was a intresting experience, but it calmed you down a bit. I loved doing it and I wish I could acually do it again! I think the 8th grade had a great time, and I think all of the 7th graders this year will love it too! You never know maybe I will show up 
Donny, the pictures are great and I love being able to listen to the speeches! Nice!
Thank you, Donny. I loved hearing the speeches and seeing the pictures. What a great opportunity for our kids to take part in something really special.