Joyful Traditions Mark End of School Year at Maple Street School

Manchester, Vermont – May 30, 2025 – As the school year winds down, Maple Street School is closing the year with a series of celebrations that reflect the school’s deep commitment to joyful learning, student milestones, and intergenerational connection. From all-school relays to Shakespeare on stage and quiet moments of reflection, these events bring students, faculty, and families together in true Maple Street fashion.

Field Day – June 2
A beloved tradition, Field Day transforms Maple Street’s campus into a colorful playground of teamwork and laughter. Students across all grades are divided into mixed-age teams to compete in a series of creative, wet, and wild challenges—from potato sack races and t-shirt relays to a pirate-themed treasure hunt and the Ultimate Rock-Paper-Scissors showdown. The afternoon concludes with getting very wet in the annual Fire Hose Run, a celebration of effort, spirit, and togetherness. “It’s the best day of the year,” many students say—cheering, popsicles, and team fun included.

Pre-K Moving Up – June 3
At the other end of the age spectrum, Pre-K students will mark their transition to Kindergarten with a Moving Up Ceremony held at the Southern Vermont Arts Center (SVAC). Families will gather for a picnic lunch at noon, followed by a touching bridge ceremony where each child is celebrated for their growth and readiness for the next step. This tradition honors the earliest moments of a Maple Street journey with warmth and pride.

8th Grade Celebration & Play – June 3
The week continues with celebrations for the Class of 2025. On Tuesday, the full school gathers for the 8th Grade Celebration, an event in which faculty mentors deliver personal tributes to each graduate. Highlights include the presentation of the school awards, and the much-anticipated yearbook dedication—followed by joyful yearbook signing.

The next evening, on Tuesday, June 3 at 6:00 PM in Hunter Hall, the 8th grade class takes the stage in their performance of Twelfth Night by William Shakespeare. A longstanding Maple Street tradition, this culminating English project invites students to read, adapt, and perform a Shakespearean play—showcasing creativity, collaboration, and confidence. The entire school community is welcome to attend this theatrical send-off.

8th Grade Graduation – June 4
The week concludes with Graduation on Wednesday, June 4, a formal ceremony recognizing the achievements and growth of each 8th grade student. The event includes heartfelt speeches from each graduate, and reflections from faculty. As these students prepare for high school, the ceremony marks both an ending and a new beginning—for graduates, their families, and the wider Maple Street community.

“These events capture the spirit of Maple Street,” said Head of School Dan Skoglund. “They reflect who we are: a joyful, close-knit learning community that honors growth in every stage.”

Graduates from the Class of 2025 will go on to a range of outstanding secondary schools, including St. Paul’s School, Burr and Burton Academy, Mount Anthony Union High School, Vermont Academy, and Millbrook School—a reflection of both their individual paths and the strong foundation built at Maple Street.

For more information about Maple Street School and its community efforts, please visit maplestreetschool.com or contact Chessy Slater, Director of Marketing and Communications, at cslater@maplestreetschool.com.