I would like to continue talking about the difference between some Russian and American holidays and traditions. May is over and the school time is over too. May 25th every year in all schools in Russia is the "Last Bell" Day. The bell is a symbol of calling students to class. In Russia all students from first through 11th grade are at the same school (I mean one building). So each September 1st, the first bell rings for the first grade students, and on May 25th the last school bell rings for graduates.
The bell is a symbol of the beginning of the lessons. And the last bell like a symbol of the ending of the school life.
After May 25th the 11th grade students have the final exams.
So, what about the holiday?
I can say, that "the Last Bell Day" is more important for our graduates then the prom for American students, which Russians also do.
For American people, Christmas is the most important holiday; for Russian people, this is it, just like New Year!
Thus the last bell day is usually like a big ball. All graduates are dressed up and the best couples of the school open the ball waltz.
After the waltz the first grade students give advice to graduates how to prepare themselves to adult life.
Furthermore, teachers usually make some songs or lyrics to the 11th grade students about their school life.
Parents make some performances too!
Then the graduates have the final words to thank the school, teachers and parents for everything!
Right after the ball, all 11th grade students from each school in the city change from the ball dresses to the "old school" uniform (back to USSR) and go to the main square of the city, where they walk, dance and celebrate all night!
I
remember very well my "Last Bell Day!"
My friends and I were sitting in the central square of the city and reminiscing about our school childhood, our adventures, our victories and defeats, cheating on the tests and our first loves.
We read our diaries and laughed together until the morning!
I had a very happy school childhood, where I found true friends, who are still in my life today!
I had excellent teachers who, by their example, instilled in me a love for children and a desire to work with children!
And most importantly, I had the support of my family throughout my school life. And I know for sure: my mother was proud of me at the ball, and cried because she could not believe that my childhood was over so quickly and that I was now entering adulthood.
