sample speech for daycare graduation

Messes Can Always Be Cleaned Up — A Preschool Graduation Commencement Address

Graduates, we gather today to celebrate your years of hard work and dedication. It was a long road that got you here, to this moment, and no, you cannot hit one another with your hats.

Graduation means you’ve made it through preschool, and in just a couple months, you’ll be real kindergartners. You’ll face many challenges, perhaps some setbacks. You’ll need resilience and grit to succeed in elementary school, but you’ve all got what it takes.

Some of the biggest lessons you’ll learn in school will be in the cafeteria and on the playground, not in your classrooms. I’m not talking about things like don’t buy lunch on sloppy joe day, or that when it’s sunny outside the handles on the monkey bars get really hot, although those are obviously important things to know. What I mean is that you’ll learn a lot from other children, and if they’re lucky, they’ll learn from you too.

On the first day of school, find the kid who’s sitting by himself in the lunchroom. Look for the little girl who’s crying for her mom in the mornings. See the student who’s standing alone on the playground while the other kids play zombies vs. werewolves. Be their friend. Sit down next to them, tell them it’s going to be okay, then reach out your hand and ask them if they want to play with you. Tell your friends to do the same thing.

You’ll need to stand up for people. If you see someone being mean, stop them. Tell them we don’t treat each other that way because it’s way more fun when we can all play and be friends. The world needs people who stop others from being mean. You can be those people! Make that your job right now. You are the ones who make everyone be nice.

Always remember that the coolest kids are the ones who are different. How neat is it that no one looks alike, sounds alike, or even thinks alike? If another boy or girl is interested in something you think is a little weird, or maybe even kind of scary, be brave and ask them about it. Get excited with them. Make sure you always take the time to learn about new things and people with different lives than yours. It’s actually really fun to be friends with people who aren’t exactly like us.

You can be different too. You don’t have to wear the same clothes, eat the same foods, or enjoy the same movies, TV shows, or characters as everybody else. We all get to like our own stuff. Even better? We can all look however we want. Check it out: We’ve got a body and a life, and we can do so many fun things with them. We can be whatever we want!

Be a helper. The world needs helpers right now, and it doesn’t matter that you’re only 5 or 6. Children can help too. You guys matter, and you can make a difference. If someone falls and skins their knee, go over and make sure they’re okay. When a friend can’t carry his heavy backpack, go over and give a hand. Wipe down the board for your teacher. If another child is sad, ask her if she needs a hug, and share a toy or a book. Tell her you care about her. Doing stuff like that is a much bigger deal than making it to the third-grade reading group way ahead of schedule — trust me.

You don’t have to decide what you want to be when you grow up right now. Don’t worry about that. Grownups will ask you what you want to be all the time, but that’s because they can’t think of anything else to say to children. You shouldn’t be thinking about a job you might have in 16 years. Your work right now is to play. It’s to explore and build things and take things apart just so you can see exactly how they’re put together. Mess with things. Make up stories and act them out. Have adventures.

When you are a grownup, you might have to wear a uniform or a suit. You might have to cut your hair a certain way, or you might not be able to get away with wearing a tiara on an everyday basis. Wear silly costumes now. Play dress up. Put on wacky leggings with light-up shoes and a top covered in glitter. Top the whole thing off with a unicorn horn and a rainbow crown. It’s okay to dress as wild as you want . Have fun with that.

Guess what else you should have fun with? Creating. You don’t have to make a brown horse if you think it would be cooler in sparkle aqua. Make all kinds of things — real life things that we can hold and touch and turn upside down. Get out the glue, the stapler, the scissors (ask your parents first), and go to town. Build stuff.

You’re going to learn to read and to write. You’ll do math problems and learn about Colonial times. Some of you may take a little longer to get it than others, but that doesn’t matter. In just a few years, your brains will be filled with facts. You’ll learn all sorts of new skills. It’s going to happen, so think of school as an adventure you get to go on every day, and try not to be too hard on yourselves.

We grownups don’t expect you to be perfect. If you mess up, or make a mistake, or even get into a little trouble, understand that is how you’ll learn and keep learning. You know how if you make a big mess, if you work together you can always get it all cleaned up? Well, life is like that too. Messes can always be cleaned up. Most of the time you’ll get another turn. If you don’t get the part you wanted in the class play, be super happy for the student who did, and know that your time will come too. We all get disappointed, and we all get a chance to shine.

Good luck, graduating preschoolers! We are so very proud of each and every one of you.

This article was originally published on June 9, 2017

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Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

Graduation Speech [20 Examples + Template]

Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class.

Being selected as a commencement speaker is a great recognition, but the responsibility can be intimidating. How do you know what kind of message will hit home for the graduates at this point in their lives? How do you make your message stand out from other words of wisdom that the graduating class has heard before?

Fortunately, there are many incredible graduation speeches from which you can pull information. We’ve gathered 15 of the best graduation speech examples here to make your research and brainstorming process easier. A little studying can give you ideas for the perfect graduation speech topic and help you write your speech efficiently.

In this article:

Graduation Speech Examples

Graduation speech template.

Take note of the flow and structure of the examples, and let them guide you in creating your own graduation speech outline. Remember to practice your speech and memorize the bulk of it so you’re able to deliver with confidence. With a strong theme and plenty of practice, you’re sure to gain the audience’s attention and leave them inspired.

Here are 15 free graduation speech examples to gain inspiration from. If you like a style or message of a sample speech, use it as a model to create your own original version.

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1. Funny Valedictorian Speech

This valedictorian entertains the audience of his high school graduation speech with subtle, kind-hearted jokes that reflect the graduating class and the school faculty. The graduation speaker has a sentimental theme to his speech, but his light humor ensures that the presentation is both meaningful and memorable.

“You see, this is not goodbye. This is see you in two to 10 years when I’m significantly smarter, wealthier, funnier, and more handsome than I am right now.”

2. College Graduation Speech Example: Conan O’Brien at Dartmouth College

You don’t have to be a famous comedian to deliver a funny graduation speech, but let Conan O’Brien’s speech at Dartmouth College serve as a good model to create your own. Intertwining life advice and great jokes, O’Brien inspires graduates to get past failure and pave their own paths.

“Today I tell you that whether you fear it or not, disappointment will come. The beauty is that through disappointment, you can gain clarity, and with clarity comes conviction and true originality.”

3. Preschool Graduation Speech

This preschool graduation speech is a great example for teachers who need to give a commencement address. A speech for a preschool or kindergarten graduation is different, in that the speaker is mostly communicating to the parents of the graduates. This preschool teacher delivers a meaningful speech that explains the joy in her job, while touching on the humorous things the students have said over the months.

“Tomorrow I give you back your child, the same child you entrusted in my care last fall, except now I give them back to you pounds heavier, inches taller… I give them back to you a little smarter, a little more mature, and a little more responsible than they were 10 months ago.”

4. David Foster Wallace Kenyon College Commencement Speech

In what is recognized as one of the best graduation speeches of all time, David Foster Wallace affirms to a class of liberal arts students that their education taught them how to think and how to be self-aware.

“The only thing that’s capital-T True is that you get to decide how you’re gonna try to see it. This, I submit, is the freedom of a real education, of learning how to be well-adjusted. You get to consciously decide what has meaning and what doesn’t. You get to decide what to worship.”

5. Middle School Graduation Speech

A class president delivers a heartwarming message in a storytelling format at his middle school graduation ceremony.

“Once upon a time, three long years ago, a journey began. We were obedient little munchkins, climbing up stairs meant for giants, carrying heavy backpacks filled with every sort of colored pencil existing on this earth.”

6. University of Wisconsin-Madison Commencement Speech 2017

Steven Levitan, creator of the award-winning show “Modern Family,” was the commencement speaker at the University of Wisconsin-Madison for the graduating class of 2017. This is a good example to follow if you’re an alum of the college you’re presenting to.

“It’s hard to believe I graduated here 33 years ago. I still have the official university photo of me receiving my diploma wearing only shorts under my cap and gown and holding a big bottle of champagne, as if to say, ‘Hey world, lower your expectations.'”

7. Mark Zuckerberg’s Harvard University Commencement Speech

Successful people are often chosen as commencement speakers for university graduation ceremonies. See how the CEO and founder of Facebook is able to portray humility in relating to the 2017 graduating class at Harvard University.

“I’m honored to be with you today because, let’s face it, you accomplished something I never could. If I get through this speech, it’ll be the first time I actually finish something at Harvard. Class of 2017, congratulations!”

8. Al Roker’s Commencement Speech at Champlain College

Upon receiving his doctorate degree of humane letters, the “Today Show” weather anchor delivered an inspirational speech to the graduating class. Roker speaks to the class’s generation and relates his graduation speech topic back to his own upbringing.

“Be in the moment. Stop living through your screen. Experience it now.”

9. Steve Jobs’ Commencement Speech at Stanford University

The Apple CEO’s commencement speech at 2005 to the graduating class at Stanford University is one of the classics. Jobs tells stories about his own experiences with dropping out of college, being fired from Apple, and being diagnosed with cancer.

“Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t be trapped by dogma — which is living with the results of other people’s thinking. Don’t let the noise of the other opinion drown out your own inner voice. And, most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition.”

10. Elementary School Graduation Speech

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pVOQVsbkmbM

This fifth-grade class speaker relates her teacher’s message to a lesson from her grandfather as her opening hook .

“To survive the fifth grade is not barely making it through. Instead, to survive means to perform with distinction.

11. Ellen Degeneres Commencement Speech at Tulane University

The famous talk show host and comedian Ellen Degeneres’s commencement speech at Tulane University is a great example of how a guest speaker can identify with her audience.

“It was so important for me to lose everything because I found what the most important thing is. The most important thing is to be true to yourself.”

12. University of Texas at Austin 2014 Commencement Address

Rear Admiral William H. McRaven aims to inspire his audience right from the beginning. The rear admiral encourages the graduating class to change the world, relating everyday life struggles to those of the people in the military.

“If you want to change the world, start off by making your bed.”

13. Matthew McConaughey Commencement Speech

Oscar-winning actor Matthew McConaughey drew from his own personal story to deliver an inspirational commencement speech at the University of Houston. McConaughey gives the graduating class 13 life lessons, including to define success for yourself and find joy in your work.

“Prioritize who you are and who you want to be. Don’t spend time with anything that antagonizes your character.”

14. Commencement Address by Jim Carrey

In his commencement address at Maharishi University of Management, actor Jim Carrey tells an emotional personal story. Carrey uses emotion to encourage the graduating class to walk their own path and never settle in life.

“Your need for acceptance can make you invisible in this world. Don’t let anything stand in the way of the light that shines through this form. Risk being seen in all of your glory.”

15. Stephen Colbert’s Commencement Speech at Wake Forest University

The famous comedian delivers a witty and funny graduation speech, offering students practical advice for the real world.

“And if there’s one thing you need even more, it’s your own set of standards. It may seem counterintuitive now, but once you leave here, you may miss being graded on all your work. Because when you’re out of school, there are no objective criteria for achievement anymore.”

16. Inspiring Graduation Speech

In this remarkable graduation speech, the class valedictorian makes a political statement by publicly revealing her status as an undocumented immigrant. The speech starts out with jokes, but turns into a moving performance that’s as powerful as it is fun to watch.

“To each and every single one of you, I say thank you. You taught me that it’s okay to be different and that there will always be people willing to overlook those differences and accept you for being yourself.”

17. Funny Graduation Speech

This class-elected graduation speaker has the perfect delivery of well-crafted jokes and one-liners throughout her speech. She keeps the whole class laughing and never misses a beat.

“I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t looking forward to pursuing an additional 4-year education – which I can’t afford.”

18. Moving Graduation Speech

This college graduation speech educates listeners about women’s education through the eyes of the speaker, who encountered resistance to seeking an education just because she was a woman. It’s nearly impossible to listen to this speech without feeling moved to take action.

“I couldn’t have imagined attending college, simply because we weren’t allowed to. My sisters weren’t allowed to; the girls before me weren’t allowed to.”

19. Funny Graduation Speech

This graduation speech by the senior class president is humorous and engaging. The class president reminisces with plenty of jokes in a speech full of fun memories and just the right amount of inspiration.

“I know we can all agree that this class is resilient. We survived an earthquake, two blackouts, and Ebola.”

20. Short Graduation Speech

Graduation ceremonies can be long, but the speeches don’t have to be. This short graduation speech uses an “ABCs of life” format to pack a lot of power into a short amount of time. The class president gets wild applause from the audience for his quick but clever speech.

“We must Q – quit quitting, and R – run the race with patience.”

• Thank teachers and your parents or other family members for their support, encouragement, help, aid or personal assistance during your years of studying.
• Praise accomplishments and achievements of the class.
• Reflect upon the past years, what has changed and is interesting enough to share with all?
• Mention funny and exciting events, you can opt for funny oneliners or even small innocent jokes, poems or quotations from famous people if you like.
• Motivate your fellow students and teachers and professors to look to the bright future:
• I continue with the 10 most wanted and popular graduation speech topics:
• Give advice, but avoid boring cliches that are totally not surprising.
• Entertain by telling humorous anecdotes and vivid stories. Offer an account of an interesting or humorous incident.
• Express the feelings of the class. But do not go over the top.
• Say farewell to all attendees. This acknowledgment at parting is the warming-up for the next and final step
• Wish the graduates of your class all the best and thank them for listening.

Don’t forget to:

Thank the parents and family.  Have your class honor them with applause. Not only have they made sure you showed up to school, there’s a host of other responsibilities that parents have sacrificed to accomplish for you. Now is your moment to focus on them for a minute or so.

Thank the teachers and administrators.  Each teacher or professor works many long hours that you don’t see in the classroom, and many have poured their hearts and lives into teaching. Take this moment to make it worth it for them.

Use some of my vote of thanks example expressions to feed you imagination for topics for graduation speech a little bit.

Make the address personal. When you decide to make your graduation speech personal, you will experience much bigger success. It will also be more fun to write and deliver a talk that brings high school or college to a close with recognition of the small things in education life. The memories you will run across looking through yearbooks and talking about with friends will be priceless for you as well.

Calm the nerves.  It is very intimidating to address hundreds of people in the audience while delivering a graduation speech. Many of us have fear of public speaking. Before you proceed, do this test. And practice the tips.

Consider including:

STORIES Include stories about your school. These high school graduation speech topics can be about teachers and funny things that have happened over the year.

EVENTS Include motivational or moving events that may have happened – perhaps volunteer opportunities that have changed the students’ perspective. Make sure that any major events that have happened are recognized.

Sports and music events that have been important to the school need to be recognized, even if it happened in one of the prior years of your class and not the graduating year.

CLASS EXPERIENCE Bring the class experience alive for those attending the graduation. Grandparents and parents, as well as siblings, have heard the names from school.

Bring the people to the campus life that they have heard about.

DECEASED If a fellow student or teacher has died, mention that person. Make it not a funeral obituary eulogy but recognize them for the family who might be present.

PROJECTS Mention any projects that the school has undertaken; if you have been involved in a community garden or other volunteer organization give credit for the impact it has made.

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Kindergarten Graduation Speech - Well Done To One And All

A kindergarten graduation speech marks an amazing and special milestone!

You're looking out over a sea of faces in your audience - proud mums, dads, grandparents, family and friends - and indeed they have every right to be proud.

There is something special about a kindergarten graduation ceremony - innocence retained, journeys begun and dreams waiting to be achieved.

A graduation speech needs to pay tribute to each and every child - all so special in their own way.

We hope our free sample speech will get your creative thought processes going and we have no doubt that you'll add a bit, maybe delete a bit - either way - you are going to say it just right!

Good Afternoon Ladies, Gentlemen and of course, most importantly, the girls and boys who are graduating from kindergarten today - this is indeed a very special day!

I am very aware that today is about the children and as such, my speech is largely aimed at the special young people sitting on stage today. Don't they look fantastic? I think they deserves a round of applause before we even begin! Today is all about you girls and boys. I know it is difficult to sit still for a long time - so I promise that I'll try and keep my speech as short as possible.

Stacia Tauscher said, "We worry about what a child will become tomorrow, yet we forget that he is someone today." 

As parents and teachers we do put a lot of time and energy into preparing our children for their futures. And rightly so. We do indeed need to equip our children with life-long skills to prepare them for adulthood. It is our collective responsibility as we guide and mold the leaders of tomorrow -  for it is on them that the future will have to depend.

Today, as we pay tribute to the young ladies and gentlemen of tomorrow, we know that they have started their remarkable journey towards achieving this goal. This year has seen them grow and develop exponentially. They have learned so much. They have remained eager and enthusiastic and they have grown in so many ways. Our thanks and appreciation to all the teachers and the parents for the fantastic role that you have all played to facilitate this process.

Now, girls and boys...I need to tell you how very proud we are of you today.

You are all incredibly special people today, right now,  as you sit here in front of us. You have all worked very hard to learn more every day, you have played hard, you have made new friends and you have all tried to be a good friend too. Well done and congratulations to each and everyone of you - you can feel very proud of all you have done this year.

Our young children will move into a new year - a year with new challenges to deal with. As they move into their respective tomorrows so bright with goals already achieved and more dreams still to aspire to, we say to them...

Enjoy being four today with all your heart and soul... and worry less about preparing to be five.

Hold onto your uncanny gift of finding everything in nothing, of not only seeing seven wonders in the world - but several thousand.

"Work hard and play straight" and may you stay...in your spirit and soul...

Forever young!

In your kindergarten graduation speech pay tribute to our children - "they are the message that we send to future that we will not see" - John W. Whitehead

Return from Kindergarten Graduation Speech to Words of Wisdom Free Graduation Speeches and Words of Wisdom that Inspire

How to Host a Memorable Preschool Graduation

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Preschool graduation is an essential milestone in a child's life. Graduating from preschool means a child is one step closer to starting kindergarten, which is a significant accomplishment. It's also a time for families to celebrate how far their child has come.

Preschool graduations give children a chance to show off the skills they have learned in the past year. Families get the opportunity to experience first-hand what their child has achieved throughout their time at preschool. 

Preschool graduation is a special day and there are a lot of things to consider when planning this event. This guide offers a few ideas to help make the day memorable.

Celebrating milestones: Preschool graduation

Preschool graduation marks a pivotal milestone in a child's educational journey, celebrating their growth and the foundational skills they've acquired. This event not only signifies an important transition but also sets the stage for the beginning of a new and exciting chapter.

Preschool graduations are significant events that:

Celebrate children’s developmental milestones : A preschool graduation ceremony is a celebration, as it signifies children's ability to learn, grow, and take on more responsibility. It also shows that children are meeting developmental milestones, an essential step in children's lives that is worth celebrating.

Honor children and families for their time at your center : Preschool graduations are a chance to celebrate the children, families, and teachers who have worked together to make children’s learning and time at your center successful. 

• Acknowledge teacher and family partnerships : Preschool graduations are also times to acknowledge the strong home-to-school connection that teachers and families have achieved. It is also an opportunity for families to consider how they can continue supporting their child's educational goals after they move on from preschool.

With brightwheel, you can strengthen relationships between staff and families with things like real-time messaging and daily reports . The app makes it easy for families to get in touch with you, and staff can quickly send messages, SMS alerts, or engaging newsletters to families.

Components of a preschool graduation ceremony

Preschool graduation ceremonies are special occasions that recognize young learners' achievements and readiness for the next step in their educational path. Here, we explore the essential components that make up a memorable preschool graduation ceremony:

• Speeches: The preschool administrator or director generally congratulates children on their hard work and dedication to the school. They can talk about what children have learned in the past year and how it has helped them grow. They may also talk about what the future holds for them and give advice to families.
• Receiving diplomas: The presentation of a preschool diploma is usually simple, with each child receiving a certificate from the school. The school may also present children with other mementos that symbolize their success. Families also sometimes bring gifts for their children, accompanied by a photo session.

Special school traditions: Traditions vary from school to school; this can be anything from a special song or dance performance to a more formal procession. Regardless of the specifics, these traditions are fun and memorable ways to mark the occasion.

Preschool graduation ideas

To help organize your event, consider choosing a preschool graduation theme with relevant activities that showcase what children have learned in the past year. The theme sets the tone for the ceremony and can transform a simple graduation into a captivating event that children, families, and teachers will remember for years to come.

Consider involving families and children in the planning process to build community and engagement with your program. They can assist with decorating the space, choosing the music, preparing refreshments, and cleaning up after the event.

Once you settle on a particular theme, incorporate it into every aspect of the event to make it fun and memorable for children. Here are ten ideas to consider for your preschool graduation ceremony.

1. Under the sea

This is a great way to bring the beauty of the ocean and its many creatures to the event. Here are some ideas to help bring this theme to life:

• Decorate the graduation venue with blue and green streamers, balloons, and other under-the-sea-themed decorations
• Give out seashells or other under-the-sea-themed favors to the graduates 

2. Out of this world 

This theme is a great way to inspire children to reach for the stars and celebrate their stellar achievements. Some ideas for decorating this theme include:

• Hanging planet and star decorations from the ceiling
• Setting up a rocket ship as a backdrop
• Making space-themed crafts such as aliens, UFOs, and telescopes

3. Exploring the future

This theme is all about showing a future full of possibilities. Some popular activities include:

• Having the children wear costumes inspired by their favorite futuristic movie or TV show
• Playing games that reflect what life will be like in the future
• Using virtual reality to “transport” your children to a different world for their big day

4. Growing garden

Just like a blooming plant, the growing garden theme represents the growth and development of the children over the past year. It can also be a reminder of the importance of learning and growing. Here are a few tips on how to prepare for this theme: 

• Choose a location that has plenty of green space, such as a neighborhood park
• Decorate the space with flowers and plants 
• Use garden-themed props such as watering cans, baskets, and flower pots

5. Alphabet theme

An alphabet theme is a great way to incorporate learning into the festivities and will put your children’s letter knowledge on display. 

• Decorate your venue with alphabet letter balloons
• Sing songs that teach the alphabet, such as The Alphabet Song
• Create awards for each child that correspond to a letter of the alphabet. For example, the "A" award can be for being an "amazing artist", the "B" award can be for being a "brave helper", and so on
• You can also serve alphabet-themed food like alphabet soup

6. Reading books

A book-themed graduation ceremony is a great way to encourage a love for reading. Consider one book that your children have read the past year and use it as a base for your decor.

For example, children can dress up as their favorite book characters, and the ceremony can end with everyone reading aloud from their favorite book. Additionally, you can end the ceremony with a book-themed graduation song, such as The Reading Song or The More We Read Together.

7. Road trip 

A road trip-themed graduation ceremony is a great way to celebrate the end of preschool and the beginning of summer vacation. The decor can be based on popular travel destinations, and the graduate program can include activities related to road trips. Alternatively, the ceremony can have a special "road trip" down the graduation aisle, with children riding in toy cars or buses. 

8. Rainbow theme

What better way to celebrate than with a rainbow-themed graduation party? Imagine a sea of little graduates in their caps and gowns, each adorned with ribbons of different colors of the rainbow. Create this theme with plenty of colorful balloons, streamers, and tablecloths. And, of course, no graduation party is complete without a delicious cake, so be sure to include a rainbow cake in your plans!

9. Nature theme

Use animal prints, greenery, and rustic props like tree stumps and wooden signs for a nature-inspired theme. You can set up a mini zoo with stuffed animals or animal masks, or you can organize a nature walk with the children to explore the local flora and fauna. You can also have a storytelling session with animal-themed books.

10. Circus-themed ceremony 

For this theme, you can organize games, such as a ring toss, beanbag toss, or balloon darts, to keep the children entertained. You can also set up a photo booth with circus-themed props such as clown noses, mustaches, and hats so children can take photos with their friends and family. This is a great way to celebrate the children's accomplishments and send them off to kindergarten with a bang.

Sample preschool graduation program

Having an organized timeline can help you plan your graduation ceremony and activities. Even a very simple program can still create a memorable and engaging experience. Below is a sample program you can use to plan your event and adjust to suit the needs of your school's culture: 

• 8:00 am: Processional by the graduating class.  The preschool staff will begin the ceremony by leading the children's procession, with each child escorted by a family member.
• 8:05 am: Welcome speech.  Once everyone is seated, the preschool director will welcome children and guests. 
• 8:10 am: Performance.  Usually the preschool class will be prepared to sing a short song or perform a simple dance.
• 8:15 am: Presentation of diplomas.  After the performance, it’s time for children to receive their diplomas, presented by the preschool staff. Families can also come up on stage for a photo session.
• 8:45 am: Final speech.  To wrap things up, the preschool director will thank families for their support throughout the year and end on an inspirational note. 
• 8:50 am: Reception.  End the day with a small reception with refreshments.

Preschool graduation checklist

Here are some items to include on your preschool graduation checklist:

• Decorations 
• Graduation gowns
• Graduation caps
• Diplomas 
• Invitations 
• Refreshments
• Cameras and video cameras
• Gifts for children (optional)

Bottom line 

Graduating from preschool is a significant milestone for children and their families. It marks the end of an essential phase of their lives and the beginning of a new one.

When children graduate from preschool, they have their first taste of real achievement and are proud of what they’ve accomplished. With creativity and preparation, you can pull off a preschool graduation ceremony that both children and families will appreciate and remember forever.

Brightwheel is the complete solution for early education providers, enabling you to streamline your center’s operations and build a stand-out reputation. Brightwheel connects the most critical aspects of running your center—including sign in and out, parent communications, tuition billing, and licensing and compliance—in one easy-to-use tool, along with providing best-in-class customer support and coaching. Brightwheel is trusted by thousands of early education centers and millions of parents. Learn more at  mybrightwheel.com .

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Stump The Teacher

Preschool graduation speech.

8 comments:

Great use of Satire. I enjoyed reading your post, and I have a son that is moving on to kindergarten next year. It was so weird to talk about his 'testing accommodations' in his IEP meeting for KINDERGARTEN! I don't want to homeschool, but it might be our best option to keep creativity and natural learning alive. Thanks again for the post.

Powerful! It makes me so sad. Fostering curiosity should be the focus no matter what age or grade.

Fantastic, beautiful letter. As a pre-service teacher, this reminds me again of what I want my classroom to be and how I want to teach. This makes me more determined to provide a fun, open and engaging classroom for my students to grow in.

This was sad and funny at the same time. I have been teaching elementary school for the last twenty years. It is hard to see the trend that what is tested is what is taught, period. It's nice to know that I'm not the only one with a wider vision. Thank you.

Very true . . . and sad. This is why I moved from doing therapy with public school students to running an authentic Montessori school. Love of learning - learning HOW to learn - is fostered every single day at out school. I see it in my own children and in the other students. Why can't this way of learning be accessible to every child in elementary and middle school??? Oh, right. Because we have all that testing to teach to as dictated by . . . ???

As an elementary school principal of a Pre-k to 3rd grade school, I appreciate the wisdom of the 'speech'. We want children to have a love of learning. Reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA - currently known as No Child Left Behind) must be done to remove the high stakes testing if we have any chance of preserving that natural curiosity and creativity.

I agree that student's creativity is being put to the side as they enter elementary, junior, and high school. It is very unfortunate because learning should be fun, not just about grades and testing. This rigid form of schooling will cause a lot of students to lose some interest in school. Creativity is a must as some students need to be challenged this way. The good news is that Kindergarten and the early elementary grades use creativity sometimes. The bad news is that creativity gets removed from students' education as they progress through the grades. Thank goodness for teachers who really think outside of the box because like you said, no matter what is required of testing, these teachers will still incorporate creativity in the classroom.

It saddens me that this is so true!

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• Family Life

“Smile More”—The Preschool Graduation Speech

by Zack Bodner · June 8, 2021

Editor’s note: OFJCC President and CEO Zack Bodner had the privilege of addressing the Leslie Family Preschool Class of 2021 on May 28, 2021 as they marked the end of their preschool years and journey forward. Please find Zack’s speech below.

___________________________________________________________

Welcome, Leslie Family Preschool Class of 2021! It’s a joy see you all here. This past year has been a challenge. It hasn’t been easy. We have had to wear masks, we’ve had to cancel travel plans, and we’ve stayed inside a lot.

But now that more people are getting vaccines, and we are seeing COVID rates going down, this is a time to celebrate and be happy. And what better way to do that than by smiling more?

Friends, that is my message to you today: Smile more.

Even if you’re wearing a mask, when you smile more, people can see your eyes crinkle up and they know you’re smiling.

Even if you’re on Zoom, when you smile more, people can see that you’re happy.

When you smile more, you make new friends more easily.

When you smile more, you feel more optimistic about life.

When you smile more, your body makes chemicals that make you feel more relaxed and helps your body fight disease.

When you smile more, it’s contagious! Kind of like yawning … you ever notice how when you yawn, you can make others yawn too?! Well, the same with smiling: if you smile at someone, you can make them smile too!

When you recognize things that make you happy and smile about them, you see more of the good in life. There is an old Jewish teaching called “hakarat hatov” – recognizing the good. It’s an attitude in life. It’s like if you lose your keys to your house, you have to think: well at least I have a house! That’s ‘seeing the good.’ That’s hakarat hatov. And that attitude has to make you smile more.

Graduating preschoolers, this is where you have something to teach the grownups. Some say that adults smile around 40 times a day, while children smile hundreds of times a day!

Preschoolers, you adapted brilliantly to your changing environment over the last year. Educators, you brought out the best in everyone. And parents, your partnership is what made it all possible. That is resilience in action.

Graduating preschoolers, you will be entering the next phase in your lives: kindergarten. It is a time to reflect back on your years at the Leslie Family Preschool and the beautiful memories you’ve made here. We hope you’ll stay part of the community here. We hope that you’ll come to swim in the pool, play on the Oasis Play Space, take a jog around the field, attend a great family event or say hello to an old teacher. We’ll be waiting for you … with a smile.

Thank you and congratulations!

Written by Zack Bodner

Zack Bodner spends his days as the CEO of the OFJCC and his late nights waxing poetic on the Live Fully Blog. During the in-between hours, he and his wife ro-sham-bo for who does the dishes and who puts each of their three kids to sleep. On the weekends, Zack schleps his brood from soccer to baseball to drama to dance and then back to soccer. He can often be found asleep in one of his kids' beds after reading bedtime stories to them.

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Giving a Preschool Graduation Speech: Tips for Speaking to Parents & Preschoolers on Graduation Day

• Rebecca Mayglothling
• Categories : Preschool teaching strategies, advice & tips
• Tags : Early education information for teachers, parents & caregivers

Preparing Your Speech

Talking to preschoolers is simple in the classroom, where students understand the schedule and are prepared for instruction. Speaking on graduation day, however, is trickier due to the fact that the students are out of their normal element. Many of them will be excited and antsy. Asking the class to sit still through the full ceremony may be asking too much from children ages three to five. The most important aspects of delivering a speech to a preschool class are the length of the speech, the use of humor in the speech and the specific content of the speech. Prepare the speech at least a week ahead of time; more time is better. Recruit coworkers and other preschool teachers to listen to your speech and help with editing.

What If You’re Nervous?

Being nervous is natural. While you are with the children all day, you are not with the parents all day. On graduation day, the parents will be in attendance. While you will be comfortable addressing your class, you may be completely uncomfortable doing it in front of the parents. Take deep breaths before getting in front of the crowd and count backwards from ten slowly. This activity relaxes your muscles and slows the adrenaline which is already rushing through a nervous body. When you are in front of the crowd, remember you are addressing your class, so look at your class. Avoid looking at the crowd behind your class. The speech is for the same crowd you address on a daily basis, so remember this and address them.

The length of the speech is the most important part of the speech. While three to four year olds are beginning to gain a longer attention span, they are still young and will probably be excited on this special day. Asking them to pay attention may be akin to asking them to sit still for more than ten minutes - it may not happen as planned. Therefore, attempt to keep the speech under ten minutes and allow the children to move quickly to the next event. Delivering a speech quickly to preschool students allows them to pay attention to the speech while maintaining the ability to sit still for the duration of the ceremony.

Add Some Humor

Humor is an icebreaker and speech mover for every age group. Adults love humor; kids will love it too. Talk about jokes from the classroom or a funny incident in the classroom. Keep the kids laughing and you will keep their attention as well. Jokes and humor keep the speech light during a time which may otherwise be emotional. Depending on the type of teacher you are and the type of classroom you run, the humor in the speech will vary. Make it unique and make it your own but certainly use humor to make your beloved class smile and remain engaged during the speech.

Content is the Key!

Make the content personal. Talk to the class as a whole and review some fun times from the past year. Were there any field trips? Talk about the fun time had by the class. Were there special visitors? Talk about how the class responded to the visitor. Review favorite lessons or activities where the students seemed to have more fun than usual. A speech delivered to a preschool class from the teacher is allowed to be personal, as the speaker is directly addressing a specific group. Deliver good tidings toward the end of the speech, but keep the main topic of the speech reflective, as children at this age understand what has happened better than what will happen.

Including the Rest of the Crowd

The rest of the crowd will be listening to your speech; however, any stories or jokes you share with your class can be explained to the rest of the audience after the speeches are over, during the socialization after the ceremony. Don’t feel the need to explain every section of your speech to the rest of the audience. Your audience is your class. Keep this in mind when writing your speech and address the class as if it were just another day in preschool. At the same time, don’t include any content which may offend parents or make others wonder what the heck happened in your classroom!

Light Hearted Speeches

Graduation day at preschool should be joyous and fun, so any speeches addressed to the children will need to be kept light and energetic. It is obvious that you, as the teacher, are experiencing mixed emotions, but you are also the backbone of the children and the classroom. Keep up this role through graduation day and keep the mood happy for the children. Be sure to hug each child and say goodbye, but save the tears for later.

Photo Reference: RF

Author’s Own Experience

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Graduation Theme

Graduation poems and gift ideas for preschool, pre-k, transitional kindergarten, or kindergarten classrooms.

Graduation Books

Graduation Picture Slideshow

Many teachers like to create a picture slideshow or movie to show parents at the end of the year. Visit the blog to learn how to make a quick and easy end of the year picture slideshow .

Graduation Speech

If you have to give a graduation speech this one titled “ Great Expectations ” won’t leave a dry eye in the house, especially yours!

Free Printable Beach Bucket Tags

Beach buckets make a great end of the year gift in preschool or kindergarten. Download your free beach bucket tags that say “Dig Up Some Summer Fun!” on the blog HERE .

Graduation Poems and Photos

Take a class picture with your digital camera and copy these poems for your students. There are two poems I have used, one starts You’re a very special person and the other starts with “ Here is a picture that you can treasure .” Glue the poem of your choice on the back of the photo to give to your students on the last day of school.

End of the Year Scholastic Book Gifts

I take the poem found here that starts with “I’m glad I was your teacher” and shrink it down so it fits 4 per page. Then I cut the poems apart and glue them to the inside cover of a Scholastic book to give as a gift to each child. You can collect enough Scholastic books for your entire class for free by using your bonus points.

Autograph Beach Ball Souvenir

This idea is a sure hit with any grade level! I ordered mini, inflatable beach balls by the dozen from Oriental Trading then inflated them and wrote with a permanent marker on each ball “I had a ball in Mrs. ______’s class” along with the year. If your students are old enough they can all sign the beach balls with a permanent marker.

Forget Me Not Flowers

This Forget Me Not gift idea is perfect for kids to give to teachers or teachers to give to kids. Visit the blog to download your free printable Forget Me Not seed packets with poem.

End of the Year Treat Bag Topper

A cute end of the year treat bag topper and photo prop idea using Teddy Grahams instead of candy. Read all about it on the blog here .

Butterfly Garden Seeds

Order packages of Butterfly Garden seeds in bulk on-line or buy them at your local nursery. Print a butterfly goodbye poem and glue to the front of a card. On the inside of the card glue a package of the Butterfly Garden seeds and sign your name.

Printable Graduation Party Planning Kit (Editable)

Preschool Graduation Kit

170 pages of graduation printables to make planning and preparing for a preschool, pre-k, or kindergarten graduation program easier! Add your own text to these done-for-you resources and create an amazing and memorable graduation program for your students and parents.

More Graduation Ideas

Photo Credit at top: © Jaimie Duplass / Dollar Photo Club

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A Parent’s Guide to Giving a Speech at Your Child’s Graduation

June 14, 2023

Graduation is a significant milestone in the life of your child, and as a parent, you may have the honor of giving a speech at their graduation ceremony. This is a precious opportunity to express your pride, love, and well wishes for their future.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how to give a speech at your child’s graduation that will leave a lasting impact. Additionally, we will introduce Yoodli, an AI speech and communication coach, and how it can assist you in crafting and delivering a remarkable speech that touches hearts and minds.

The Power of Giving a Speech at Your Child’s Graduation

Giving a speech at your child’s graduation ceremony is an opportunity for a heartfelt tribute that celebrates the achievements of your child and offers them both guidance and inspiration as they embark on their next chapter in life. It’s an opportunity to capture the essence of their educational journey thus far, acknowledge their growth, and provide them with valuable life lessons.

How to Use AI to Practice Giving a Speech at Your Child’s Graduation

Yoodli , an AI speech and communication coach, can be an invaluable tool in helping you deliver an exceptional graduation speech for your child. Here’s how Yoodli can assist you.

1. Refine your script.

Yoodli provides feedback on your speech script, helping you refine your content to ensure clarity, coherence, and emotional impact. It offers suggestions to enhance your storytelling, use persuasive language, and structure your speech effectively.

2. Improve the delivery of your speech.

Yoodli can also help improve your delivery by providing feedback on elements such as pacing, tone, and body language. It offers insights on how to engage the audience, maintain eye contact, and project confidence during your speech.

3. Practice your speech in a low-stress environment.

Yoodli offers virtual practice sessions where you can rehearse your speech and receive real-time feedback. This feature allows you to fine-tune your delivery and identify areas for improvement.

3 Quick Tips for Planning Your Speech at Your Child’s Graduation Ceremony

Here are a few straightforward ways you can prep for your speech at your child’s graduation ceremony.

1. Reflect on your child’s journey.

Take time to reflect on your child’s educational journey when giving a speech at their graduation ceremony, considering their challenges, successes, and personal growth. This reflection will help you craft a speech that resonates with their unique experiences.

2. Identify key messages in your speech.

Consider the key overall messages you want to convey in your speech. These can include expressing pride in their accomplishments, acknowledging their resilience, and sharing advice for the future, as well as expressing gratitude to teachers and mentors.

3. Structure your speech in a way that makes sense.

Organize your speech in a way that flows naturally and engages the audience. Consider using the following structure:

• Introduction : Grab the audience’s attention with a compelling opening that sets the tone for your speech.
• Personal anecdotes : Share meaningful, memorable stories and anecdotes about your child’s journey and highlight their character traits and achievements.
• Words of wisdom : Offer advice, life lessons, and encouragement for their future endeavors.
• Gratitude : Express your gratitude to teachers, mentors, and the educational institution for their guidance and support.
• Closing : Finally, end your speech with a heartfelt message of love, pride, and well wishes for your child’s future.

What to Say in a Speech Celebrating Your Child’s Graduation

Crafting the content of your graduation speech requires thoughtfulness and consideration. Here are some key points to include:

1. Acknowledge their achievements.

Begin by acknowledging your child’s achievements, highlighting their academic successes, extracurricular involvement, and personal growth throughout their educational journey . This is a great start to any graduation speech for your kid.

2. Express your pride and love for them.

Share your genuine pride and love for your child. Emphasize the joy they have brought to your life and the pride you feel in their accomplishments. This personal touch won’t go unnoticed.

3. Share personal anecdotes.

Weave in personal anecdotes that exemplify your child’s character, resilience, and growth. These stories will create a connection with the audience and add depth to your speech. On the other hand, look back to when you were their age and share a relevant story from your experiences as a young adult.

4. Offer sound advice and encouragement.

Provide words of wisdom and guidance for your child’s future endeavors. Share lessons you have learned and encourage them to embrace new opportunities, pursue their passions, and navigate challenges with determination.

5. Express your gratitude for them (and others).

Express gratitude to teachers, mentors, and the educational institution for their contributions to your child’s development. Acknowledge their dedication, support, and positive impact on your child’s educational journey.

6. Look to the future.

End your speech with a heartfelt message about the bright future that awaits your child. Express your confidence in their abilities and reassure them of your unwavering support as they embark on their next chapter.

The Bottom Line on How to Give a Memorable Speech at Your Child’s Graduation

Giving a touching and memorable graduation speech for your child is an honor and an opportunity to celebrate their achievements. By following the steps outlined in this guide and utilizing the assistance of Yoodli, your AI speech and communication coach, you can refine both your script and delivery, ensuring that your speech resonates with the audience and leaves a lasting impact.

Remember, the most powerful speeches come from the heart, so embrace the moment and let your love and pride shine through as you celebrate this significant milestone in your child’s life.

Giving a Speech at Your Child’s Graduation: 8 FAQs

1. how long should a speech at my child’s graduation be.

A graduation speech typically ranges from 5 to 10 minutes in length. It is important to keep your speech concise and engaging, capturing the audience’s attention without exceeding the allotted time. If you’re one of many parents giving a speech at this ceremony, keep it on the short side.

2. How can I manage nervousness while delivering the speech at my child’s graduation?

Nervousness is natural when giving a speech. To manage it, practice your speech multiple times, visualize a successful delivery, take deep breaths before speaking, and focus on connecting with the audience . Remember, your love and genuine emotions will shine through, helping you overcome nervousness.

3. Should I memorize my entire speech for my child’s graduation ceremony or use cue cards?

The choice between memorizing the entire speech or using cue cards depends on your comfort level and speaking style. Some prefer to memorize to maintain a natural flow, while others opt for cue cards to ensure key points are covered. Use the method that allows you to speak confidently and maintain a connection with the audience.

4. Is it necessary to include humor in the speech?

Including humor can add a light-hearted and memorable touch to your speech. However, it is essential to consider the audience and ensure the humor is appropriate and relevant to the occasion. Use humor sparingly and in a way that aligns with the overall tone and purpose of your speech.

5. Can Yoodli help with non-English speeches?

Yoodli primarily focuses on English language speech coaching. While it may provide general guidance on delivery and body language, its script refinement feature may be limited to the English language. For non-English speeches, it is recommended to consult with language-specific resources or coaches.

6. Can Yoodli help with pronunciation improvement?

Yes, Yoodli can provide feedback on pronunciation and offer suggestions for improvement. Its advanced speech recognition technology allows it to analyze your pronunciation and provide targeted guidance to enhance your overall delivery.

7. How far in advance should I start preparing my graduation speech?

It is recommended to start preparing your graduation speech several weeks in advance. This allows ample time for reflection, scriptwriting, revisions, and practice sessions. Starting early gives you the opportunity to craft a well-thought-out and impactful speech.

8. Should I rehearse my speech multiple times?

Rehearsing your speech multiple times is crucial for a confident and polished delivery. Practice allows you to refine your script, work on your timing, and become familiar with the flow of your speech. Rehearsing also helps you internalize the content, making it easier to deliver naturally on the day of the graduation ceremony.

Remember, while Yoodli can provide valuable guidance, ultimately, the success of your graduation speech relies on your personal touch, genuine emotions, and the love you have for your child. Embrace the opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments and leave a lasting impression with your heartfelt words.

Start practicing with Yoodli.

Getting better at speaking is getting easier. Record or upload a speech and let our AI Speech Coach analyze your speaking and give you feedback.

• TemplateLab

Graduation Speech Examples

50 top graduation speech ideas (& examples).

Try to search online and you’ll find a lot of graduation speech examples. If you’re in charge of giving a speech during this important event, you have the choice of whether to compose a long or short graduation speech. As long as you’re able to convey your message, the length isn’t that relevant.

Table of Contents

• 1 Graduation Speech Examples
• 2 What should you write about in your graduation speech?
• 3 Graduation Speech Outlines
• 4 Structuring your graduation speech
• 5 Graduation Speech Templates
• 6 High School Graduation Speech
• 7 Tips for writing graduation speech
• 8 College Graduation Speech

What should you write about in your graduation speech?

Most people wonder what to write for their graduation speech examples. Whether you need to compose a high school graduation speech example or a college graduation speech example, you must put a lot of careful thought and consideration into the contents of your speech.

In the past, writing a graduation speech template wasn’t that intimidating. But now, you should remember that there’s a high likelihood that the people present at the event will post your speech on social media sites such as Facebook and YouTube. This makes it imperative that you compose a speech that’s effective, interesting, and won’t end up offending anyone.

A lot of incredible speakers start their speech-writing process by creating an outline. So, if you want to come up with a great speech, you may want to start off with a graduation speech outline . Here, you include everything you want to include in your speech. From there, writing becomes easier.

Graduation Speech Outlines

Structuring your graduation speech

When it comes to the structure of your graduation speech, you have a few options to choose from. As you create your graduation speech outline, you’re giving it a structure for you to follow when it’s time to start writing.

You may create a long or short graduation speech depending on how much you want to say and how long you want to stand in front of the graduating class. You can even create a graduation speech template using the structure of your choice. This makes it easier for you for the next time you need to come up with a speech.

If you have no idea where to start, you may go online and read high school graduation speech examples or college graduation speech examples. Use these as your reference or for your inspiration as you write your speech.

Graduation Speech Templates

Either way, these examples will be a great help to you if it’s your first time to compose such a speech. To guide you, here are some structures to follow for your graduation speech:

• Use a few themes which you illustrate with non-fictional or personal stories For this type of speech, you can use a couple of themes which you introduce early in your speech. From reaching their dreams of finding their own place in the world, there are so many themes to choose from. Then illustrate these themes further using non-fictional examples or stories from your personal life.
• Use several themes which you illustrate with short anecdotes or personal stories For this structure, you come up with a number of themes for your audiences. But instead of sharing those themes at the start of your speech, you share short anecdotes or personal stories which illustrate those themes. Then you give helpful advice to your audience to help them in their future endeavors. However, this structure isn’t ideal for short graduation speeches. Since you’re going to use several themes, this means that your speech would be relatively long. Therefore, it’s probably a good idea to use this for a college graduation speech, not one for a high school graduation .
• Use an autobiographical narrative If you plan to use this structure for your graduation speech examples, it means that you want to open up and share more details about your life to your audience. It’s sort of like a mini-memoir wherein the audience learns a lot about the experiences you’ve had in your personal life. As you share these experiences, you also share a lot of life lessons with them. Although you don’t give advice directly at the beginning of your speech, you would incorporate these little bits of advice throughout your speech. Talk about your own experiences after graduation, how you dealt with the real world, and how you overcame different kinds of challenges.
• Use the main theme and some personal references Finally, you can also structure your speech in such a way that you’re leading up to one main theme or point. A lot of people find this structure to be extremely difficult to put together because they feel like it’s too limited. But as long as you create a graduation speech outline, following this structure won’t be that much of a challenge.

High School Graduation Speech

Tips for writing graduation speech

Whether you’re representing the graduation class or you’re asked to come and give a speech to the graduating class, you have to come up with your own graduation speech. The good news is that there are a lot of graduation speech examples which you can use as a reference.

Writing a graduation speech doesn’t have to be a difficult task. As long as you have an idea of what to write and you know what you want to say to the graduating class, the words will start flowing from your mind. But if you need some help, here are some tips to guide you:

• Brainstorming Any great speech starts with a brainstorming session. You can begin by asking yourself what you want to write in your speech. If you’re the representative of the graduating class, then think about all of the learning and experiences you’ve gained throughout your education. If they asked you to speak for the graduating class, then think about the advice you want to share to them in order to inspire them and somehow prepare them for what’s to come. Brainstorming involves a lot of thought, especially about the future. There’s nothing wrong with talking about the past and the present but since you’ll speak to a graduating class, talking about the future is much more relevant. As you think about the things to say, write everything down on a piece of paper. Later on, you can review your ideas to see which ones to keep and which ones to remove from your speech.
• Choosing a theme After your brainstorming session, you’d have a lot of ideas, stories, and advice to share to your audience. Now it’s time to begin shaping all of these into one coherent speech. To do this, you may want to think about the theme to focus on for your speech. Whether you want to choose a single theme or a collection of themes which you will link with one another, this step makes speech writing easier. Also, having a theme makes the speech more memorable and impactful to the audience. With a theme, you’ll also be able to sort through the things you’ve written down more effectively only choosing the ones which relate to your theme.
• Building the structure After you’ve identified the theme, you can start building the structure of your graduation speech. Here are some steps to help you out: Make sure that your introductory statement grabs the attention of your audience right away. In other words, get the audience “hooked” from the beginning so they will feel compelled to listen to your entire speech. Illustrate the theme you’ve chosen by telling stories. Keep in mind that the best stories always have a beginning with a challenge or obstacle, a middle where you share how you overcame it, and an end where you discussed how this experience helped you grow. For the end of your speech, tie together all of the points you’ve discussed throughout your speech. Also, make it clear how your message applies to your audience. You may also share valuable advice to your audience in the conclusion of your speech.
• Practicing your delivery Even after you’ve written your speech, the work doesn’t end there. You also have to deliver it to the graduating class. For a lot of people, this part is a lot more intimidating, especially for those who aren’t used to speaking in front of an audience. Here are some pointers for you: If you’ve created a short graduation speech, you may want to try memorizing it. This helps you focus on your delivery to make it more personable. Don’t speak too fast even when you’re feeling nervous. Try practicing in front of friends and family so you can learn how to consciously slow down your speaking rate. Once in a while, pause during the delivery of your speech. You can either pause to emphasize your point or to give the audience some time to consider what you’ve said. If you want to keep your audience engaged, make eye contact. Don’t feel stressed or stop if you make any mistake. Just continue with your speech.
• Other tips for you Don’t forget to thank everyone who helped you on your journey. If you aren’t part of the graduating class, thank the person who invited you to give the speech. Be as lively and enthusiastic as possible when delivering your speech. If it’s your first time to deliver a speech, practice again and again. Have fun with it! Feeling stressed won’t help.

College Graduation Speech

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Teach the importance of a preschool graduation

Graduation is such a special milestone in a child’s life.  This ceremony is a great opportunity to celebrate learning and to recognize an important milestone, one that may be the first of many milestones. The innate feeling of pride and accomplishment as you walk across the stage to receive your preschool diploma is so amazing.  From the tassel on the graduation cap to hearing the ceremonial music of “Pomp and Circumstance” for the first time, graduation is a special moment.

Teaching about graduation also helps children transition into kindergarten.  Easing children into the transition to school is a huge benefit in their future learning experiences.

The ability of students to fully engage in and benefit from their kindergarten experiences has been shown to depend on the degree to which they successfully transition into kindergarten, and the success of that transition is at least partially predicated on their home and early educational backgrounds.

Read more: Facilitating the Transition to Kindergarten

Families can teach about graduation by reading graduation books, incorporating graduation into play, and more.

Read on for some suggestions:

Books to read:

• Mrs. Bindergarten Gets Ready for Kindergarten Joseph Slate, Ashley Wolff
• The Night Before Kindergarten Natasha Wing, Julie Durrell
• Edgar Graduates Dr. Mary Ann Shallcross Smith

Incorporate graduation into play:

• Pretend play with graduation gowns, graduation caps, tassels, and diplomas
• Set up a “stage” with chairs for the audience and for the children
• Play “Pomp and Circumstance” so children can practice marching on/off stage
• Make yarn or sting tassels to use as a paint brush alternative
• Cut out graduation photos and paste/tape onto blocks for block play
• Practice writing the words “tassel,” “diploma,” “gown,” “cap,” “graduation”
• Provide sample diplomas for children to practice writing their names

Sing graduation songs together:

Going off to kindergarten.

Sung to: “Oscar Mayer Wiener Song”

Oh, I’m ready to go off to kindergarten That is where I really want to be Cause when I get to go to kindergarten Everyone will be so proud of me!

I’m a Little Graduate

Sung To: “I’m a Little Teapot”

I’m a little graduate Dressed in _____ (color), Wearing a gown and a cap on my head. When I leave preschool I will be ____ (age) A kindergarten student Aren’t you proud of me?

Fun in Preschool

Sung to: “I’ll Be Working on the Railroad”

I’ve been having fun in preschool, Learning all year long. I can tell you all about it, Just listen to this song. We’ve been learning shapes and colors, Letters and numbers too! I’ve learned how to share with others, Now our year is through!

Original Author Unknown Sung to: “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star”

Kindergarten here we come We know we’ll have lots of fun Lots of things to make and do Reading, writing, counting too Kindergarten here we come We know we’ll have lots of fun

Sung To: “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star“

Special, special, special me How I wonder what I’ll be. In this big world I can be Anything I want to be. Special, special, special me

How I wonder what I’ll be. To Kindergarten We Go

by Christa Koch Sung to: “Mary Had a Little Lamb”

In Preschool we had lots of fun, Lots of fun, lots of fun. In Preschool we had lots of fun. To Kindergarten we go. We know our letters and 123s How to share, and all about me. In Pre-k we had lots of fun. To Kindergarten we go.

For all of our Dr. Day Care graduates – each child will receive a copy of Edgar Graduates . Read this story together with your graduate to celebrate your child’s achievements.

Edgar Graduates

This book teaches children the concepts of graduation as well as understanding important milestones in a child’s life. By reinforcing milestones children can easily recognize (such as toilet training, learning ABCs, and more), children learn about educational opportunities that are available.

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Preschool Graduation Ideas: Planning for the Big Day!

It’s that time of year and you need to start thinking about preschool graduation ideas ! Where do you begin??  

Whether it’s your first year teaching or you just want to mix things up a bit (sick of singing the same songs year after year?), The Preschool Professor has lots of preschool graduation ideas for you!

Let's talk about the bigger considerations and then we'll look at the details of the program and the many resources to help you plan your Graduation Ceremony!

The details of your graduation program will be easier to plan once you've decided on the bigger, "logistical" pieces.  

We need to consider and plan "The 5 W's and the H" of preschool graduation ideas and planning!

Let's Get Started!

The 5 W's And the H of Preschool Graduation Ideas!

What?!  Well, as when we plan any presentation, we need to look at:

• Who and 

1.  Why? Celebrating Milestones!

The transition from preschool to kindergarten marks a very important step in a child’s life. It is only appropriate to celebrate this moment with an event that will be as memorable as the rest of the year was.

2.  Where?  Location, Location, Location!

The first thing you will want to decide is the location where you will hold the preschool graduation ceremony.  You have many options for location for preschool graduation ideas!  Deciding on where will depend on how many people will be attending.  Many times grandparents, aunts, uncles, and neighbors may be invited in addition to the preschooler and his or her direct family!  The location you choose will need to accommodate seating for everyone!

You may have few or many choices available.  Some might be:

• In your classroom
• In a larger room (such as the cafeteria, gymnasium or other room in your facility).
• In a local facility such as the local high school or church
• In your playground!
• Outside is a great idea if you can do it!  You can set up chairs for families and have a fun, informal but moving ceremony. 

If you choose outside, consider ahead of time the following:

Access to an electrical outlet (for a microphone, DVD player or CD player).

Back-up plan for inclement weather (where inside can you move it to if it rains?).

My personal preference is a location that is already familiar to the children.  Remember, they are still preschoolers and new places and environments are sometimes difficult to adapt to.  It creates anxiety and nervousness in many children (and adults)!

When I directed a preschool in a church, we used to have the celebration in the Sanctuary.  There was plenty of room for families to sit (in the pews) and the children were higher up in the chancel area (you know, that area where the Pastor stands during Sunday worship service).

This was the tradition for years.  We would all go upstairs for rehearsals often before the big day.

One year, we were not able to use the Sanctuary.  The carpets had some issues and were being replaced it was off limits to everyone for the week!

EEK!  Panic!  Our only other option was to hold the ceremony in the "big room" (as the children called it) just outside the classroom.

This was the Fellowship Hall of the church.  It is a room we used for an "indoor playground" in bad weather.  

After the ceremony, so many parents (who had children in our preschool program over the years) commented on how much they LOVED having graduation in this room instead of in the Sanctuary!

The children were more comfortable because it was a familiar space to them.  The parents felt it was more intimate because they weren't so far away from where they children were standing!  It became the new tradition from that year on!

Ultimately, you will need to decide the spaces available to you and once you make that decision, you can move on to the next "W" of preschool graduation ideas and planning....

3.  When?  Setting the Day and Time

This is another piece that leave us with many options to choose from.  What day do you have the program on?  During the week?  On a Saturday?  And what time of day do you hold it?  During class time?  In the evening?  This will depend on who is planning to attend.

During the Preschool Hours

Some teachers prefer to schedule a short but sweet ceremony during the last preschool day. 

The advantage is that you know that most of your students will be there as arrangements are already made for their children to be at school at that time.  But, in my opinion, this is the BOLD ONLY benefit.  

Their are many disadvantages to this (and the reason why we hold an evening graduation):

Parents may not be able to get time off from their jobs during the day or

Only one parent will be able to get time off and attend

Other family members (Grandparents especially!) LOVE to attend these celebrations of milestones and may not be able to attend during the day.

During a Weekend

Many preschools hold their celebrations on a Saturday or Sunday.  They are planned (the date) in advance so that families are aware at the beginning of the year.

This can work out very well.  However, you will need to consider the time of year.  May and June are a very busy time for many other graduations as well such as High School and College Graduations.  In addition, many schools have field days or other gatherings for their students and schools at this time of year.

Many of your preschoolers will have siblings, cousins or other family members who have these events going on.  So, weekends can be tricky in May and June.

Evening Celebration

Many preschools plan their celebration for an evening.  This has been the option that has worked best for us over the years.

The considerations for an evening celebration is the timing.  It is usually best if held after dinner time and being certain it ends before preschool bedtime!

This has been the option that worked best for us through the years.  We held the celebration from 6:00-7:30. One hour for the program and 1/2 hour for hanging out together and enjoying some snackage!

Once you have the location, the day and the time decided (and honestly, I recommend that you decide on this at the beginning of each school year!), you are ready to move on to the next "W" of preschool graduation ideas and planning.......

4.  What?  Informing and Communicating the Program with Families

You may have just recently chosen the day, time and place.  You may have chosen it at the beginning of the year and sent it out on your annual event calendar.

Regardless, it is time to begin the stream of communication about the details of your program!

What is the best way to do this?  ANY and EVERY way you can!  Do not solely rely on the newsletter---you know, the one that is sometimes found in the bottom of the backpack or in their cubbies or mailboxes weeks after it was distributed?  ;)

As with any communications, each parent has their own way of receiving information so utilize them all:

• Highlight it front page and center in your newsletter
• Post a colorful notice (use balloons if you want to!) on the door parents use to come in and out of the program.
• Send emails to all parents
• Post it on your Facebook Page
• Tweet about it!
• Postal Mail  This is the most important:  Use snail mail!  What?  You know, the good old-fashioned "Mail an Invitation!"!  

Address it to the family and list the return address as the preschool with the child's name as well:

Billy Preschooler

ABC Preschool

123 Main St.

Anytown, Your country 12345

Trust me, families WILL see and open this letter!

There are sooo many choices and ways to create invitations!  I have listed them on the Preschool Graduation Resource page (coming soon!)!

So now you know where you will hold the celebration, the day and time and have sent out invitations.  But HOW will you pull it all together?  Glad you asked!  Let's move on to the next "W" of preschool graduation ideas and planning.. ...

5.  Who?  Many Hands make Light Work!

This proverb is very true!  The more help you have, the more successful and fun your celebration will be! Assign tasks from your graduation ideas list or program to families!  Don't become a one engine train (or control freak!  ;)  ) about this!  

This is a celebration...for everyone involved:  The children, the families and the teachers and staff!  Let's plan together!

Decide on tasks you can assign to others such as:

• Snacks:   A sign-up process for snacks for the graduation day (ask a parent to call parents to sign people up for snacks, plates, cups, napkins, tablecloths, etc.)
• Decorations:  Will your director order them?  Do you have some from previous years?  Also, have the children create some artwork to hang on the walls!
• Props:  Are your children singing songs or acting out a short play?  Ask families to create or gather the props you will need either for the scenery, costumes or to go along with the songs.
• Set-up:  Do you need folding chairs or tables?  Ask parents to loan them to you!
• Clean-up:  Can a family member or two stay a little later to help clean up after the program?  For that matter, can any come early to set up??!

Share the excitement, including sharing the tasks!  There are so many details you can delegate.  There are so many details that can overwhelm you.....bringing us to our final consideration....the "H" in preschool graduation planning ideas...

6.  How?  Keeping It Real without Really Losing Your Mind!

First let me direct you back to the first section of this page:  The "Why".

Don't forget WHY you are doing this!  It is to celebrate!  To enjoy the growth and development of your preschoolers--their skills AND their friendships throughout the year!  And, for many of the students, it is a time to say goodbye...the most bittersweet of the "Why".

Let's remember what your graduation program is NOT for:

• It is NOT to impress parents or families with our amazing recreations of Pinterest ideas (though--go for it if you enjoy it!).
• It is NOT to have the children "pull off" a "perfect" program!
• It is NOT to (sorry......but it should be said!) "show off" our mad skills on how well we got children to "memorize, repeat and behavie" for 45 minutes to an hour!

Relax!  Enjoy this time with the students who have stolen your heart for the past year or more!  Enjoy this time with the families who have entrusted their children to you for the past year or more!

Enjoy planning a program that reflects your children's interests and abilities; your program's mission and that allows you all to celebrate this milestone together!

With that said.....it's time to brainstorm more preschool graduation ideas for your Graduation Celebration!

Planning The Program Details:   Preschool Graduation Ideas and Resources

Here are some pages for you to check out.  I hope you find them helpful!  If you have additional preschool graduation ideas to add to any of these pages, please share them!  You will find a submission form at the bottom of each of the pages in which you can share your ideas!  The more we share, the better prepared we are!

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Free Printable Graduation Speech Templates [PDF] for Students

Graduation is a milestone moment that signifies the end of one chapter and the beginning of a new one. As we stand on the brink of this exciting new phase in our lives, it is natural to feel a mix of emotions – pride, gratitude, and perhaps a little bit of nervousness about what the future holds.

But no matter what the future holds, we can all look back with pride on the hard work and determination that brought us to this point. And as we embark on the next stage of our journey, we do so with the support and encouragement of our teachers, friends, and loved ones. It is with this sense of community and purpose that we approach the task of delivering a graduation speech – a chance to share our memories, our aspirations, and our gratitude with those who have been with us every step of the way.

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Graduation Speech Templates

Inspire and captivate your audience with our extensive collection of free printable Graduation Speech templates . Craft a memorable and impactful speech for this momentous occasion, whether you’re addressing graduates, faculty, or parents. Our templates offer a structured format to help you organize your thoughts, convey gratitude, share wisdom, and reflect on the journey of achievement. Customize the templates with your personal anecdotes, motivational quotes , and heartfelt messages to make your speech truly unique. Download now and deliver a graduation speech that will leave a lasting impression on your audience.

What Is a Graduation Speech?

A graduation speech is a speech that is typically given at a graduation ceremony, usually by a student or a faculty member. The purpose of the speech is to celebrate the achievements of the graduating class and to offer words of inspiration and encouragement as they embark on the next phase of their lives.

Graduation speeches may also include memories of the time spent in school, thanks to teachers and mentors, and reflections on the lessons learned during the educational journey. The tone of a graduation speech can vary, but it is typically uplifting and celebratory, and may include humor, personal anecdotes, and words of wisdom. The goal of a graduation speech is to inspire and motivate the graduating class as they move forward into the next chapter of their lives.

What should you write about in your graduation speech?

There are many things that you can write about in your graduation speech. Some ideas might include:

Your personal journey through school : You could talk about your own experiences, challenges, and achievements during your time in school. You could also share any memorable moments or anecdotes that you want to share with your classmates.

Your gratitude for teachers and mentors: Graduation is a great opportunity to thank the teachers and mentors who have supported you throughout your educational journey. You could express your appreciation for their guidance and encouragement.

Words of wisdom: Graduation speeches are often seen as an opportunity to offer words of wisdom to your peers. You could share any insights or lessons you have learned during your time in school that you think could be helpful to others.

Your future plans: You could talk about your plans for the future and what you hope to accomplish. You could also share any goals or aspirations you have for your career or personal life.

Encouragement: Graduation can be a scary time, as it marks the end of a familiar chapter and the beginning of something new. You could use your graduation speech to offer encouragement and support to your peers as they navigate this transition.

Remember to keep your speech positive, uplifting, and focused on the achievements of your class . You can also include some humor and personal anecdotes to make your speech more engaging and memorable.

Essential Elements of a Graduation Speech

There are several essential elements that you should consider when writing a graduation speech. These include:

Introduction: Start your speech by introducing yourself and thanking the audience for coming to the graduation ceremony. You can also set the tone of your speech by stating the theme or main message you want to convey.

Body: This is the main part of your speech, where you will present your ideas and insights. You can organize the body of your speech around different themes or topics, such as your personal journey through school, your gratitude for teachers and mentors, or your future plans.

Conclusion: End your speech by summarizing the main points you have made and offering any final thoughts or words of encouragement. You could also end with a quote or a call to action.

Tone: The tone of your graduation speech should be positive and uplifting, with a focus on celebrating the achievements of your class. You should aim to be inspiring and motivating, rather than negative or critical.

Length: Keep your speech concise and to the point. Graduation speeches are typically between 5-10 minutes in length, so aim to keep your speech within this time frame.

Personal anecdotes: Adding personal anecdotes can help to make your speech more engaging and memorable. You can share stories or experiences that are relevant to your theme or message.

Humor: Including a bit of humor can help to lighten the mood and make your speech more enjoyable for the audience. Just be sure to keep your jokes appropriate and respectful.

Practice: Practice your speech several times before delivering it. This will help you to feel more confident and comfortable when giving your speech.

How To Write a Graduation Speech

Writing a graduation speech can be a daunting task, but with some careful planning and a bit of creativity, you can craft a speech that is memorable and meaningful. Here are some tips for how to write a graduation speech:

Start by brainstorming ideas: Take some time to think about your experiences in school, any lessons you have learned, and any advice you would like to share with your peers. You could also consider including any memorable anecdotes or stories from your time in school.

Determine your main message: What do you want to say to your peers in your graduation speech? Do you want to inspire them to pursue their dreams, or offer words of encouragement as they navigate the next phase of their lives? Determine your main message and use it as the foundation for your speech.

Organize your ideas: Once you have a list of ideas, start organizing them into a logical structure. You could divide your speech into different sections, such as an introduction, body, and conclusion.

Write your introduction: Your introduction should grab the attention of your audience and set the tone for your speech. You could start by thanking the audience for coming, introducing yourself, and stating your main message.

Develop your body: The body of your speech is where you will present your ideas and insights. Use specific examples and anecdotes to illustrate your points and make them more relatable to your audience.

Conclude your speech: In your conclusion, summarize the main points you have made and offer any final thoughts or words of encouragement. You could also end with a quote or a call to action.

Edit and revise: Once you have a rough draft of your speech, take some time to edit and revise it. Look for any awkward phrases or sentences that could be improved, and eliminate any unnecessary words or ideas.

Practice, practice, practice: It is important to practice your speech several times before delivering it. This will help you to feel more confident and comfortable when giving your speech.

In conclusion, a graduation speech is a significant and memorable moment for both the graduating class and the speaker. It is an opportunity for the speaker to impart wisdom, share experiences, and motivate the graduates to continue pursuing their goals and dreams.

It is also a time for the graduating class to reflect on their journey and look forward to the future. A well-written and delivered graduation speech can inspire and empower the graduates to make a positive impact in their communities and the world.

What is the most important message of a graduation speech?

The most important graduation speech message is to inspire graduates to appreciate how far they’ve come, feel proud of their accomplishments, and look ahead with hope and optimism at the exciting possibilities their future holds. Remind them their education has equipped them to achieve their dreams and make a positive impact.

What do I say in a graduation speech?

When giving a graduation speech, focus on sharing:

• Congratulations and well done recognizing graduates’ achievements.
• Inspiration about their bright futures and potential ahead.
• Highlights of memories from their educational journey.
• Stories and examples relevant to the graduates.
• Messages about pursuing their dreams or making a difference.
• Wisdom and life lessons that will help graduates.
• Gratitude for those who helped along the way.
• Encouragement to work hard and believe in themselves.

What is the best graduation speech?

The best graduation speeches share:

• Personalized messages that resonate with the specific graduates.
• Meaningful quotes, insights, and advice.
• Uplifting stories and memories about the graduate’s journey.
• Humor and a relatable, authentic tone.
• Moments that spark emotions like motivation, nostalgia, camaraderie.
• Appreciation for all who helped support the graduates.
• Optimism and encouragement for the future.

What are good quotes for graduation?

Some inspiring graduation quotes are:

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela “Graduation is not the end; it’s the beginning.” – Orrin Hatch “Trust yourself. Create the kind of self that you will be happy to live with all your life.” – Golda Meir “Today is your day. You’re off to great places! You’re off and away!” – Dr. Seuss

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16 Best Graduation Speeches That Leave a Lasting Impression

Some of the most impactful and inspiring sentiments are shared during graduation speeches delivered by the leaders we look up to. Graduation speeches from celebrities , entrepreneurs, authors and other influential thinkers are motivational, inspiring, thought-provoking and just might make you reach for the nearest tissue. After four years of hard work, stress, and exhausting self-discovery, lucky graduates are privy to a life-changing speech to top it all off.

Here, we rounded up up 16 of the best graduation speeches of all time, including words of wisdom from Natalie Portman, Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, and more.

1. Steve Jobs: Stanford, 2005

"You've got to find what you love. And that is as true for your work as it is for your lovers. Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle. As with all matters of the heart, you'll know when you find it."

2. Michelle Obama: Tuskegee University, 2015

"I've found that this journey has been incredibly freeing. Because no matter what happened, I had the piece of mind knowing that all of the chatter, the name-calling, the doubting...all of it was just noise. It did not define me, it didn't change who I was, and most importantly, it couldn't hold me back."

3. Natalie Portman: Harvard, 2015

"I just directed my first film. I was completely unprepared, but my own ignorance to my own limitations looked like confidence and got me into the director's chair. Once there, I had to figure it all out, and my belief that I could handle these things, contrary to all evidence of my ability to do so was half the battle. The other half was very hard work. The experience was the deepest and most meaningful one of my career."

4. Amy Poehler: Harvard University, 2011

"What I have discovered is this: You can't do it alone … Listen. Say 'yes.' Live in the moment. Make sure you play with people who have your back. Make big choices early and often."

5. Meryl Streep: Barnard College, 2010

"This is your time and it feels normal to you but really there is no normal. There's only change, and resistance to it and then more change."

6. David Foster Wallace: Kenyon College, 2005

"Twenty years after my own graduation, I have come gradually to understand that the liberal arts cliché about teaching you how to think is actually shorthand for a much deeper, more serious idea: learning how to think really means learning how to exercise some control over how and what you think. It means being conscious and aware enough to choose what you pay attention to and to choose how you construct meaning from experience. Because if you cannot exercise this kind of choice in adult life, you will be totally hosed. Think of the old cliché about quote the mind being an excellent servant but a terrible master."

7. Barack Obama: Howard University, 2016

"You have to go through life with more than just passion for change; you need a strategy. I’ll repeat that. I want you to have passion, but you have to have a strategy. Not just awareness, but action. Not just hashtags, but votes."

8. Kerry Washington: George Washington University, 2013

"You and you alone are the only person who can live the life that can write the story that you were meant to tell."

9. Conan O'Brien: Dartmouth College, 2011

"There are few things more liberating in this life than having your worst fear realized. Today I tell you that whether you fear it or not, disappointment will come. The beauty is that through disappointment you can gain clarity, and with clarity comes conviction and true originality … Work hard, be kind, and amazing things will happen."

10. J.K. Rowling: Harvard, 2008

"I stopped pretending to be anything than what I was. My greatest fear had been realized. I had an old typewriter and a big idea. Rock bottom became the solid foundation on which I rebuilt my life."

11. Oprah Winfrey: Harvard University, 2013

"Learn from every mistake because every experience, encounter, and particularly your mistakes are there to teach you and force you into being more who you are. And then figure out what is the next right move. And the key to life is to develop an internal moral, emotional G.P.S. that can tell you which way to go."

12. Joss Whedon: Wesleyan University, 2013

"You have, which is a rare thing, that ability and the responsibility to listen to the dissent in yourself, to at least give it the floor, because it is the key—not only to consciousness–but to real growth. To accept duality is to earn identity. And identity is something that you are constantly earning. It is not just who you are. It is a process that you must be active in. It's not just parroting your parents or the thoughts of your learned teachers. It is now more than ever about understanding yourself so you can become yourself."

13. George Saunders: Syracuse University, 2013

"Do all the other things, the ambitious things … Travel, get rich, get famous, innovate, lead, fall in love, make and lose fortunes, swim naked in wild jungle rivers (after first having it tested for monkey poop)—but as you do, to the extent that you can, err in the direction of kindness."

14. Nora Ephron: Wellesley College, 1996

"Be the heroine of your life, not the victim."

15. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: Wellesley College, 2015

"As you graduate, as you deal with your excitement and your doubts today, I urge you to try and create the world you want to live in. Minister to the world in a way that can change it. Minister radically in a real, active, practical, get your hands dirty way."

16. Admiral William H. McRaven: University of Texas at Austin, 2014

"If you make your bed every morning you will have accomplished the first task of the day. It will give you a small sense of pride, and it will encourage you to do another task and another and another. By the end of the day, that one task completed will have turned into many tasks completed. Making your bed will also reinforce the fact that little things in life matter. If you can't do the little things right, you will never do the big things right."

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• 27 Movies You Need to See Before Graduation—No Excuses

Words at Ease

6 Examples of Speeches about Events

Speeches are a powerful way to connect with an audience, inspire them, and leave a lasting impact.

Crafting the perfect speech for the occasion is key, whether addressing a large crowd at a conference or delivering heartfelt remarks at a wedding.

Examples of Speeches about Events

As a seasoned speechwriter, I’ve had the privilege of writing speeches for all sorts of events over the past three decades.

In this article, I’ll share some examples that illustrate the range of what’s possible when it comes to event speeches.

So let’s get started and see how these samples can help spark ideas for your next speaking engagement!

Keynote Speech at a Technology Conference

Good morning, everyone. It’s an honor to be here with you today at the annual Tech Innovators Summit. As we gather to discuss the latest advancements and trends shaping our industry, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible progress we’ve made and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.

Technology is transforming every aspect of our lives at a breathtaking pace. From the smartphones in our pockets to the AI-powered systems that are revolutionizing industries, we are living in an age of unprecedented innovation. But with great power comes great responsibility. As tech leaders, it’s up to us to ensure that these advancements are harnessed for the greater good – to solve pressing challenges, create opportunity, and build a better future for all.

That’s why events like this summit are so crucial. They provide a forum for us to come together, share ideas, and collaboratively chart a course forward. Over the next two days, we’ll hear from brilliant minds across disciplines about how emerging technologies like blockchain, quantum computing, and the Internet of Things are poised to disrupt and reshape our lives. We’ll grapple with thorny ethical questions around data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the societal implications of automation. And hopefully, we’ll walk away motivated to leverage our collective expertise to drive positive change.

At the heart of innovation is improving people’s lives in meaningful ways, whether it’s developing clean energy solutions to combat climate change, using big data to personalize healthcare, or creating inclusive tech that empowers underserved communities. The work we do has the potential to be transformative on a global scale.

So as we kick off this year’s summit, I challenge all of you to think big and bold. To imagine new possibilities and push past perceived limitations. To build diverse teams and foster a culture of experimentation and risk-taking. And above all, to keep the human impact at the forefront of everything you do. When we combine technological prowess with empathy, creativity, and a commitment to social good, there’s no limit to what we can achieve together.

Thank you, and have a fantastic summit!

— END OF SPEECH —

Commentary: This rousing keynote sets an inspiring tone for a technology conference. It celebrates progress while acknowledging the immense responsibilities tech leaders face. By touching on hot-button issues and challenging the audience to harness innovation for social good, it provides a thought-provoking framework for the event.

Best Man Speech at a Wedding

Mike, Ashley – congratulations. I think it’s safe to say this day has been a long time coming. When Mike and I were growing up, I never imagined I’d one day have the honor of standing beside him as he married the love of his life. But from the moment I saw you two together, I knew you were meant to be.

Mike has been my faithful sidekick – the Watson to my Sherlock, the Chewbacca to my Han Solo. We’ve shared so many adventures over the years, from those ill-advised backyard wrestling matches to that epic cross-country road trip. Through thick and thin, Mike’s loyalty, kindness, and goofy sense of humor have been a constant. He’s the kind of friend who’s always there when you need him, whether it’s to crack a perfectly timed joke or to listen with a compassionate ear.

And then he met you, Ashley, and everything changed. Sure, he still made time for our hijinks and heart-to-hearts. But it was clear his universe had realigned, with you at the very center. I watched him light up in your presence, his eyes dancing whenever you walked into the room. He started using words like “soulmate” unironically. And I realized my best buddy had fallen head-over-heels in love.

Seeing the two of you together just feels right. Your playful banter, your tender stolen glances, the way you balance each other out so perfectly. Ashley, your warmth, grace, and quiet strength make you an ideal match for Mike’s generous spirit and zest for life. You both share a commitment to lifting those around you and making the world a bit brighter. It’s been a joy to watch your love story unfold.

So as you embark on this new chapter together, I wish you all the happiness your hearts can hold. May your home be filled with laughter, your adventures be many, and your love continue to grow deeper with each passing year. I’m so grateful to be a part of your life. Here’s to your incredible journey ahead! Cheers!

Commentary: This warm, heartfelt best-man speech strikes the perfect balance of humor and sincerity. It paints a vivid picture of the couple’s love story while highlighting what makes their bond so special. The personalized anecdotes and well-wishes make it ideally suited for a wedding reception.

Welcome Speech at an Academic Conference

Esteemed colleagues – welcome. It is with great pleasure that I stand before you today to officially open the 45th International Symposium on Molecular Biology.

Over the next four days, we have the opportunity to engage in the critical exchange of ideas that propels our field forward. As we gather to present cutting-edge research, grapple with complex scientific problems, and forge new collaborations, I am struck by the caliber of the minds in this room.

From seasoned luminaries to rising stars, the depth of expertise represented here is truly staggering. It is a testament to the vitality and importance of the work we do – work that holds the potential to deepen our understanding of the fundamental processes of life, to unlock novel therapies for devastating diseases, to push the boundaries of what we thought was possible.

As we explore a packed program of keynote addresses, panel discussions, and poster sessions, I encourage you to approach each interaction with an open and inquisitive mind. Challenge assumptions, engage in lively debate, and seek out perspectives different from your own. True breakthroughs are born in the collision of ideas.

I would be remiss not to acknowledge the tumultuous times we find ourselves in. Amidst a global pandemic, geopolitical tensions, and the ever-present specter of climate change, the role of science in society has never been more crucial – or more hotly debated. As researchers, we have a profound responsibility to uphold the integrity of the scientific method, to communicate our findings clearly and truthfully, and to use our knowledge in service of the greater good.

It is my sincere hope that our time together at this symposium will not only deepen our scientific understanding but also strengthen our sense of purpose and community. May the connections forged and insights gleaned here resonate long after we depart.

Thank you, and let the 45th Symposium begin!

Commentary: This welcome speech sets an intellectually engaging tone for an academic conference. It acknowledges the expertise of the audience while framing their work in the context of pressing global challenges. The call for open and collegial scientific exchange offers an inspiring vision for a productive meeting.

Acceptance Speech at an Awards Show

I am humbled and overjoyed to accept this award tonight. As I look out at this sea of brilliant, creative minds, I am reminded of how fortunate I am to be part of such a vibrant, supportive community.

None of us gets here alone, and I certainly didn’t. I need to thank my incredible cast and crew. Your talent, dedication, and camaraderie breathed life into this film, and I am forever in your debt. To my fellow nominees, I am awed by your work and grateful to be counted among you tonight.

I also want to thank the Academy for this tremendous honor. For believing in the power of storytelling to move hearts, open minds, and change the world. When we began this journey three years ago, no one could have predicted the twists and turns it would take. There were moments when giving up seemed like the only option. But I was fortunate to be surrounded by a team that pushed me to dig deeper, to be braver and more honest than I ever thought possible.

That’s the magic of filmmaking. The alchemy that happens when dedicated artists come together, pour their souls into a project and create something far greater than the sum of its parts. Something that has the power to transport us, challenge us, and connect us across divides.

I started making films because I believed in that power. In the stories that make outsiders feel seen, that gives voice to the silenced, that grapple with the messy, complicated truths of the human experience. I still believe in those stories. They are needed now more than ever. Representation matters. Truth matters. Art matters.

So to every young person watching tonight, wondering if there’s a place for your voice, for your vision – there is. Tell your stories with abandon. Take up space. Be bold and unapologetic in your truth. This industry, this world, needs you – all of you – exactly as you are.

This award is more than a trophy. It’s a reminder of how far we’ve come, and a challenge to go further. To take more risks, leave no one behind, and blaze new trails. Together.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for this moment. I will cherish it always.

Commentary: This emotional acceptance speech expresses gratitude while highlighting the collaborative nature of filmmaking. It celebrates the power of storytelling and representation, encouraging aspiring artists to be bold and authentic. Touching on the film’s challenging journey adds an inspiring personal dimension.

Inspirational Speech at a Fundraising Gala

Good evening, friends. We gather tonight in recognition of a simple truth: that every child deserves a chance to thrive.

For over a decade, the Bright Futures Foundation has been working to make that truth a reality. By providing access to quality education, healthcare, and enrichment programs, we’ve helped thousands of underserved youth unlock their potential and chase their dreams. But as proud as I am of the progress we’ve made, I know how much further we have to go.

The reality is, that we live in a society where far too many children are denied the opportunities they need to succeed. Where zip codes determine destinies, and talent goes untapped for lack of resources. This isn’t just an abstract issue – it’s a moral failing with real human costs.

I’ve seen those costs firsthand. In the bright eyes of a little girl who loves to learn but has no books in her overcrowded classroom. In the slumped shoulders of a teenage boy, bursting with untapped potential but aging out of a broken foster care system. In the weary face of a young mother, working three jobs just to keep the lights on, with nothing left for her kids’ education.

These children are our children. Their potential is our potential. When we fail to invest in them, we don’t just limit their futures – we impoverish our own. But here’s the good news: change is possible. Every day, I see the transformative impact that mentorship, resources, and most of all, opportunity can have on a young life.

I think of Jessica, a shy eighth grader, her nose always buried in a tattered library book, who blossomed into a confident young scientist with a scholarship to MIT. Of Jamal, a natural-born leader, who went from a struggling student to the first in his family to graduate college, and is now a passionate advocate for educational equity. Of Lila, a gifted artist, who discovered her voice at one of our afterschool programs and now runs her graphic design studio, giving back to the community that believed in her.

Their stories are a testament to what’s possible when we invest in the limitless potential of every child. They’re a powerful reminder of how much work we have left to do.

So tonight, I’m asking you to join us in that work. To give generously, not out of obligation, but out of a deep belief in the power of opportunity to change lives. It’s going to take all of us – our time, our resources, our unwavering commitment – to build a future where every child can thrive. It won’t be easy; nothing worth doing ever is. But I believe with every fiber of my being that it’s not only possible but essential.

The brilliant young minds in underserved communities across this country aren’t just our greatest untapped resource – they’re our most precious ones. When we invest in their potential, we invest in a brighter, more just, and more prosperous future for us all.

Thank you for your passion, your partnership, and your unshakable belief in the power of opportunity. Together, let’s get to work.

Commentary: This passionate call to action uses vivid storytelling to illustrate the transformative power of investing in youth. By weaving heart-wrenching examples with hard-hitting facts, it makes a compelling case for supporting expanded educational opportunities as a moral and societal imperative – perfect for a gala or fundraising event.

Valedictorian Speech at a High School Graduation

To the esteemed faculty, proud parents, devoted friends, and most of all, to the exceptional Class of 2024 – good evening. It is the highest honor to stand before you tonight and attempt to put into words the momentous journey we’ve shared.

I say attempt because, how can language alone capture the depth and breadth of our experience? The late nights spent puzzling over calculus problems, the heated debates in history class, and the camaraderie forged on the playing fields and theater stages. The laughter, the tears, and the triumphs big and small have shaped us and will bind us, long after we leave this place.

What a beautiful, messy, glorious trip it’s been. And even more than the knowledge we’ve stuffed into our heads, it’s the life lessons we’ve absorbed – often without realizing it – that I suspect will serve us best moving forward. Lessons not found in textbooks, but etched on our hearts:

Lesson 1 : Every person has a story, and every story matters. As I look out at this sea of caps and gowns, I’m struck by the rich diversity of our class. We come from different neighborhoods, worship in different ways or not at all, and dream in different languages. But here, we learned to listen with open minds and hearts. To celebrate our differences as the source of our strength. That’s a skill our divided world desperately needs, and I know we’ll carry it with us wherever we go.

Lesson 2 : Failure is not the opposite of success; it’s part of the process. So much pressure is put on us to have it all figured out. To ace the test, win the game, and get into the “right” school. But some of the most profound growth happens when we stumble. When the experiment explodes, the essay bombs and the startup goes bust. Those moments teach us resilience, adaptability, and the ultimate futility of perfection. Failure is simply an opportunity to begin again, this time more wisely. May we never lose that beginner’s mindset.

And most important – Lesson 3 : You are enough, just as you are. In a culture that’s always urging us to be prettier, richer, and more popular, it’s easy to forget this simple truth. But your worth isn’t measured by Instagram likes or ivies on your transcript or zeros in your bank account. It’s found in your kindness, your curiosity, your willingness to show up, mess up, and try again. It’s found in the idiosyncratic assortment of quirks, passions, and foibles that make you distinctly, wonderfully you. Don’t let anyone convince you otherwise.

These lessons weren’t always easy, but they’ve already served us well. And as we scatter in different directions and to new adventures, I know they will continue to light our way.

The future is uncertain; that’s always been true. But it’s also ripe with possibility. The chance to build a life and a world that reflects our highest values. To find work that feeds our souls and people who love us just as we are. To stumble and get back up and forge ahead regardless. That’s the task that lies before us, and no one said it would be easy. But we’ve been prepared, and we won’t have to go it alone.

So as we step off this stage and into the rest of our big, beautiful lives, let’s do so with gratitude, with audacity, and with the bone-deep knowledge that wherever we go, whatever person we grow into, we started here. And that is a story worth celebrating.

Congratulations, Class of 2024. The best is yet to come!

Commentary: With its blend of wisdom, humor, and heart, this valedictory address offers a stirring reflection on high school’s joys and struggles while equipping graduates with life lessons for the road ahead. The focus on shared stories, productive failure, and self-acceptance provides a powerful framing for embarking on a new chapter.

From conferences to commencements, and fundraisers to weddings, speeches have the power to educate, motivate, and inspire.

By tailoring your message to the specific event and audience, grounding it in personal stories and universal truths, and delivering your words with authenticity and conviction, you can craft speeches that linger long after the applause has faded.

The examples we’ve explored demonstrate the breadth of what’s possible in event speeches, from soaring oratory to intimate reflections.

While the tone, length, and purpose may vary, the most impactful speeches share some common threads:

• They are tailored to the specific occasion and audience, speaking directly to their experiences, hopes, and challenges.
• They draw on a mix of personal anecdotes, universal truths, and carefully chosen facts and figures to paint a vivid picture and drive home key points.
• They balance humor, humility, and heartfelt emotion to forge a genuine connection with listeners.
• They leave the audience with a clear call to action, whether it’s to reflect, connect, persevere, or work towards a common goal.
• They are delivered with authenticity, conviction, and a palpable sense of purpose that goes beyond the words on the page.

As you approach your next speaking engagement, I encourage you to experiment with different styles and techniques, to dig deep into your own experiences and passions, and above all, to speak from the heart.

Trust that your unique voice and perspective have value and that your words have the power to move and inspire.

After all, that’s the true magic of a great speech.

In those fleeting minutes at the podium, we have an opportunity to articulate our shared hopes and dreams, challenge assumptions and spark new ways of thinking, give voice to the voiceless, and shape the stories we tell about ourselves and our world.

It’s a tremendous privilege – and an awesome responsibility.

But if we approach the task with empathy, integrity, and a genuine desire to serve our audience, we can craft speeches that educate, motivate, and inspire – speeches that are worthy of the occasions that shape our lives and the people we hope to become.

So the next time you’re called upon to speak at an event, I hope you’ll embrace the opportunity with courage, creativity, and conviction.

Your voice matters. Your story matters. And with the right words, spoken from the heart, you might just change the world.

One speech at a time.