The sun peeked into the bright classroom where Emma sat at her desk, drawing. 'Today's the last day,' she whispered.

Her best friend, Leo, raced in with a big smile. 'Can you believe it, Emma? Middle school awaits!'

They spent the morning signing yearbooks. 'Remember when you won the science fair?' Leo wrote in Emma's yearbook.

At lunch, Emma felt a pang of sadness. 'I'll miss Ms. Carter and our reading corner,' she sighed to Leo.

Leo nodded. 'But think of all the new books we’ll find in middle school's library!' he cheered.

The class gathered for their final assembly, clapping for each other as awards and certificates were handed out.

Emma got 'Most Curious Student.' She blushed with pride as she accepted the award from Ms. Carter.

Afterward, everyone shared their favorite fifth-grade memory. Emma spoke of their class play and the fun they had.

As they cleaned out their desks, Emma found a small, folded note. It was from Leo, saying, 'You'll always be my best friend!'

They hugged, promising to stay friends, no matter what middle school brought. Their laughter filled the emptying room.

The final bell rang, and the halls echoed with goodbyes. Emma took one last look at her fifth-grade classroom.

Together, Emma and Leo walked out of school. 'See you after summer, for a new beginning,' they said in unison, smiling.