When five-year-old Michael Orlando Clark Jnr attended his adoption hearing in the US state of Michigan on Thursday, he was far from alone.
Not only did Michael have his foster parents, but his entire kindergarten class showed up to support him.
The children waved hearts mounted on sticks and told the court "Michael's my best friend" and "I love Michael".
Michael's teacher suggested the idea and the whole class quickly embraced it.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
Judge Patricia Gardner told local news channel WZZM it was an "incredible" scene.
"Sometimes journeys [of adopted children] have been very long, they've included change for the children and family and [also] incredible community support as you're able to see today in Michael's adoption hearing," she said.
"His whole kindergarten class is here to say 'we love you' and 'we support you' and 'we'll be here not only today but all years in the future'."

