Enjoy a fun fifth grade graduation without ever leaving the campus.
For many kids, fifth grade graduation marks the end of elementary school and the start of junior high. Although the graduation serves as something of a coming-of-age moment, the ceremony should cater to children, remaining light-hearted and fun. For an added bit of entertainment, incorporate parents and teachers into the ceremony as much as possible.
Awards
Hand out a series of awards for academic achievement, providing recipients with colorful pins or certificates. Reward truly gifted kids with gift cards to local attractions, such as child-friendly restaurants, miniature golf courses and theme or water parks. Pass out silly awards, too, like "Biggest Bookworm," "The Mary Sunshine Award" to the most positive kid in the class, and "The Next LeBron James Award" for the top basketball player in the fifth grade. Let the students give awards to the teachers as well, such as "Best Dressed," "Best Comedian" and "Most School Spirit." Honor involved parents as well, such as room mothers, with a bouquet of flowers.
Slide Show
Create a slide show featuring members of the graduating class. Make certain to include photos of all the kids. To celebrate the graduates' journey through elementary school, ask parents for photos of their children spanning kindergarten through fifth grade. You can also screen a video montage set to music at the graduation. Designate a videographer at the start of the school year to film events, including Halloween parades, fundraisers and Christmas parties.
Themed Party
Host a party in the school's cafeteria or gym following the graduation. Pick a theme for the party, such as a luau or Western theme. Provide fun yet inexpensive costume items for the graduates, like plastic leis for a luau or cowboy hats for Western-themed parties. Fill the cafeteria or gym with aptly themed decorations. Offer light refreshments like cake and punch. Hire a photographer for the party, allowing students to take pictures with their parents against a backdrop.
Carnival
As most graduations take place in June, some elementary schools may host an outdoor carnival after the fifth grade graduation ceremony. Provide carnival game booths, like ring tosses and balloon dart games. Offer prizes for game winners, such as school t-shirts and baseball caps, or school supplies, like folders, erasers, pencil boxes, rulers and calculators. Ask parents or teachers to run food booths, serving drinks, barbeque and desserts.
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