Dr. Paige Hoshall-Hakimian, Keynote Speaker
Grandparents & Special Friends Day
Dr. Hakimian inspired the audience at this year’s Grandparents & Special Friends Day as she shared heartfelt reflections on the meaningful role grandparents play in today’s world. Speaking with warmth and humor, she reminded everyone how powerful the bond between generations can be. Her engaging presentation captured the attention of the entire audience, who even joined in a fun experiment from their seats. By the end, her message resonated deeply, celebrating the love, wisdom, and joy that grandparents bring into their families and communities.
Adding a personal touch to the celebration, Dr. Hakimian’s own grandchildren, Gia in Pre-K3, Galeh in Pre-K4, and Clark in Kindergarten, were among those in attendance. When asked what makes his “Lovie” special, Clark shared, “My Lovie makes the best popcorn when we sleep over to watch movies and play Uno.” His words captured the heart of the day, reminding everyone that it is often the smallest moments that mean the most.
Clark, Kindergarten
Student Spotlights
The Grandparents & Special Friends Day music program featured a heartfelt performance of God Will Work it Out by Maverick City Music, led by four talented students: Grayson, Sophie, Mirabel, and Isa.
When Mrs. Dozier asked Grayson to take part in the song, he didn’t know the lyrics yet, but he was determined to learn. He spent the evening practicing until every lyric and note felt right, and by the next class he had it memorized. With Sophie performing beside him, Grayson sang with confidence and joy, proud to share the moment with his grandparents and everyone gathered in the audience.
Sophie’s experience in plays and solo performances shone through as she sang. A natural performer who also plays piano and violin, she brought warmth and grace to the stage. One of her favorite parts of the day was playing bingo with her grandparents, a fun and relaxed way to celebrate the occasion. Sophie’s love for music comes from her family, and one of her favorite songs is Outta My Head by her mom, artist and musician Alexandra (Demetree) Cohlmia.
While Grayson and Sophie sang, Mirabel and Isa shared their talents on the violin. For Mirabel, performing with Isa felt special because their friendship had been growing stronger, and she loved the feeling of leading the group during the performance. She admired how quickly Isa joined in and played with confidence. Outside of school, Mirabel has enjoyed performing the Gravity Falls theme for her sister.
Isa began playing violin when she was four, taking lessons with her teacher Sabrina Terracciano. She also plays piano and has performed with confidence. Having her mom in the audience made the moment even more meaningful. Isa could feel her mom’s excitement and pride as she performed beside her friend Mirabel, filling the room with music and joy. Together, Grayson, Sophie, Mirabel, and Isa created a performance that celebrated talent, friendship, and family, which perfectly captured the spirit of Grandparents & Special Friends Day.
Grayson, Fourth Grade Sophie, Fourth Grade Mirabel, Fourth Grade Isa, Fifth Grade
The Fund for San Jose
At San Jose Episcopal Day School, we believe every generation plays a vital role in shaping the future of our students, and that includes our beloved grandparents and special friends. Your presence, encouragement, and example of generosity deeply impact our community and the children who look up to you.
Each year, we invite families to take part in The Fund for San Jose, our most important annual fundraising effort. Like all independent schools, SJEDS relies on gifts beyond tuition to sustain the exceptional, faith-centered education that defines our school. Contributions to The Fund directly support competitive teacher salaries, classroom technology, campus safety, innovative programs, financial assistance, and the upkeep of our beautiful, historic campus.
This year, we have taken our community spirit one step further by introducing Class Fund Representatives, dedicated parent volunteers who serve as ambassadors for each grade level. These representatives help share The Fund’s mission, encourage participation, and build a culture of giving that strengthens every corner of SJEDS. Their leadership ensures that every family has the opportunity to join in at whatever level feels right.
Your participation, whether through a gift, your time, or your encouragement, helps us build the next 75 years of learning, faith, and joy for our students. Together, we continue a legacy of generosity that began decades ago and will guide generations to come.
Click HERE to learn more about The Fund for San Jose .
Upcoming Events
Dec 10: Christmas Program
Dec 11: Christmas Program
Dec 11: Christmas Program
Feb 8-13: Scholastic Book Fair
Mar 26: Drama Performance
Mar 27: Drama Performance
Apr 18: Gala Diamante
May 5 : EE Mother’s Day Chapel
May 6 : Mother’s Day Chapel
May 12: Crossing the Bridge Ceremony
Third through Sixth Grade | 1:30 PM
First & Second Grade | 8:30 AM
Third through Sixth Grade | 5:30 PM 4:30 PM 5:30 PM 6:00 PM
Pre-K3 through Kindergarten | 8:30 AM
First through Sixth Grade | 8:30 AM Kindergarten | 8:30 AM
May 20: Annual Awards & Red Tie Ceremony
May 22: Graduation
Fifth & Sixth Grade | 10:00 AM Sixth Grade | 10:00 AM
For more information, please contact office@sjeds.org .