Is announcing an honor bragging? I don't think so.
Friday May 9, 2008
A happy mom asks a question: "I have a 'problem' that is all good. My son is set to graduate as Valedictorian of his high school class this month and I am unsure of what the etiquette is for announcing this honor. Is there something extra that is supposed to be included with the grad. announcement? Do we simply tell people who would be interested? Is there a standard for this?"
Denise’s thoughts: An honor that is earned through such hard work should be given it's due attention. I would put a note with each announcement and party invitation. Perhaps something that starts out: "(names), the parents of (teen name) would like to share with you how proud we are of our(son/daughter) for obtaining the distinguished honor of Valedictorian of his high school class."
From our parenting community: How would you announce it? How much glee can a parent show without going overboard? Share your thoughts in the comments area or on the forum.
More: How To Build a Winning Academic and Personal Record | Graduation Party Planner
Comments
RE: Valedictorian
What a Honor for such a student!
Most teens can’t even spell the word nowadays, never mind achieve such an honor.
Through your parenting, and your child’s studious actions/attitude - Your son not only has earned but worked hard for that honor and deserves the respect and recognition that comes with the time invested over years to get there.
I agree with the Moderator - a note enclosed - simple yet not over the top -with wording similiar to stated. If those see it as bragging too bad - those who understand what it took to get there will applaud his efforts!
My oldest was co-valedictorian along with a boy she had been competing with since kindergarten! We did not include anything in her announcement, but it was reported in my holiday newletter, along with what my other four kids are doing. I try not to “brag,” but just state facts. I am happy for my children, but I try to avoid the words proud of, because it is not my accomplishment, but theirs. I am a very blest mom.
Congratulations to your son.
If it’s not too late, I would include as on line on his announcements? I wouldn’t not include it on the party invitations; I think that does sound like bragging.
You have bragging rights. I think his achievement should be mentioned in the invitations. How does he feel about it? Congratulations to all of you.
Please do brag! We seem to spend so much time sharing info with friends about what our kids have done are not accomplishments to be proud of, and yet feel funny telling of good things so that we’re not thought to be bragging.
Definitely include that info in the announcements - it’s a big accomplishment!
I agree that some honors for children are special and should be celebrated, especially this valedictorian honor. I also have mixed emotions on this subject. I believe that parents go overboard on some things that aren’t so much to celebrate except for the child and his/her parents and maybe extended family. It is often unkind to repeat how well a child is doing in a certain area when it is well known and especially to a parent that has an under achiever, especially when the other parent is a bit overbearing and prideful in the announcement. I say, just remember most child events or excellent behavior on the child’s part are meant to share within the confines of the childs family and some friends while hearing the news may be rightfully excited to hear good news about their friends child others may have issues with their own child in that area and then it is unkind to go on and on about how well your child is doing.
For example: If a child gets a A in math in is not that great to announce to the friend who’s child is suffering in that subject. Most parents don’t stop and really think that it might not be that kind to make this sort of announcement.
Congratulations to your son! I can understand how proud you are of his achievement! However, I also agree with Paige, in that we parents should be aware to whom we’re announcing this achievement. Especially if you have other children who are not as academically gifted…They might misinterpret your announcement and think they’re not as loveable as the valedictorian.
If it were my son, I’d include with every invitation this honor that he has earned. This is not a sweet 16 party, something every teen turns not earns. Every person is excellent at something and good or average at most everything else. Your son is excellent at academia, therefore you have the right to feel proud of him and he has the right to have his accomplishments acknowledged and not overlooked. IF he requests that you not say anything, then you should respect that. Otherwise, tell anyone who will listen that your son cares about his education. It may just influence others to care.