A young boy in Grand Rapids Michigan invited his entire kindergarten class to his adoption hearing.
That boy is Michael Orlando Clark Jr. He invited his entire kindergarten class, 36 in all, to help him celebrate joining his new family.
Each of Clark’s classmates introduced themselves and told the Judge why they were there. Many expressed their love for Clark.
One classmate, Steven, called Michael, his best friend.
The courtroom erupted with applause after Clark and his new parents banged the gavel, making the adoption official.
Honorable Judge Patricia Gardner, talking about adopted children said — “Sometimes their journeys have been very long, they’ve included miracle and change for the children and family and incredible community support as you’re able to see today in Michael’s adoption hearing.”
And to the audience the judge remarked — “His whole kindergarten class and school is here to say ‘we love you,’ and ‘we support you’ and ‘we’ll be here not only today but in all the years in the future.'”
The court allowed each family involved a half-hour hearing to celebrate their adoption with family and friends.
The adoption hearing took place on the 23rd annual Adoption Day in Kent County. The event is put on by the Family Division of the Circuit Court in Kent county.
Even Santa Claus took time from his busy holiday schedule to greet each family and child.