AJ McLean Celebrates Daughter Elliott’s Elementary School Graduation: ‘Tears of Joy’

“Words cannot express how proud I am today as a father,” the dad of two shared in a heartfelt Instagram post

AJ Mclean and his daughter Elliot. Photo:AJ Mclean/instagram

 AJ McLean is one proud dad!

On Wednesday, June 12, the Backstreet Boys singer, 46, shared a heartfelt Instagram tribute to his 11-year-old daughter Elliott, who graduated from elementary school.

“Words cannot express how proud I am today as a father. Granted, I am proud of my kids each and every day! But today marks a new beginning and a new journey for my oldest daughter, Elliott. Today, my baby graduated elementary school what an amazing journey,” McLean wrote.

The singer included photos of his daughter standing in front of a school banner and posing with images of fellow graduates.

“It has been watching you grow up and become the young woman you are today before me. There wasn’t enough tissues to hold back all the tears of joy me and my family expressed today,” continued McLean in the caption.

The performer, who shares Elliott and 7-year-old Lyric with his estranged wife, Rochelle, thanked all the teachers who have “truly helped shape and mold” his elementary school graduate.

“I know this next journey in your life will have good times and bad highs and lows but always remember daddy is right there in your corner as is Mommy and we will always have your back, no matter what is await you in the coming year,” McLean wrote.

AJ Mclean’s daughter Elliott.AJ Mclean/instagram

The dad of two ended his post by reminding Elliott that her little sister looks up to her “each and every day.”

“And though she may not say it or show it all the time she loves you and is so beyond proud of you And has told me time and time again that you are her favorite person and her best friend,” he wrote.

In September 2022, McLean opened up to PEOPLE about his decision to fully support Elliott, who was born Ava, in her decision to change her name.

AJ McLean with his two daughters. AJ McLean/Instagram

“When my daughter asked to change her name to Elliott, initially, I didn’t know if it was a transgender thing, which it is not, but it is a personal choice. And it is her body, it’s her name, it’s her everything. And she’s still Ava. She’ll always be Ava to me,” McLean told PEOPLE.

“But at the same time, whatever reasoning it is, that’s hers, and I’m going to support it a million percent, my wife will [too],” he said.