Kent County in Michigan recently celebrated its 23rd Adoption Day. A total of 37 children were legally adopted by their forever families, each hearing just as sweet as the last.
But perhaps the sweetest, most touching hearing was when it was time for Andrea Melvin and Dave Eaton to formally adopt Michael Clark Jr.
While Michael, Andrea, and Dave sat before 17th Circuit Court Family Division Judge Patricia Gardner, Michael’s entire kindergarten class showed their support by attending the hearing. Even his teacher, Kerry McKee, was in attendance.
“He loves Mrs. McKee,” Dave told WOOD. “We asked him and he said, ‘You know, the class is kind of my family.’ And he wanted them to be there.”
“We began the school year as a family,” McKee said. “Family doesn’t have to be DNA, because family is support and love.”
His classmates also had the opportunity to speak in front of the court.
“Michael is my best friend,” Steven, one of Michael’s classmates, said.
As Michael’s adoption was made official, his classmates held up little hearts and applauded to show their friend they loved him.
“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,” Honorable Judge Patricia Gardner said during the hearing.
How sweet?! Michael’s kindergarten teacher and his entire class showed up to his adoption hearing. His teacher is right, family isn’t always DNA.
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