Exams weren’t the only things students had to look forward to before Winter Break. In recognition of the school’s recent designation as a National Blue Ribbon School, the administration and faculty have arranged for a celebration Friday from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

“This will be a very special day for our students to have the down-time of their choice,” assistant principal Jackie Ingratta said.

Fourteen celebration stations were set up throughout the campus including, a jazz band jamfest, line-dancing and a corn-hole tournament.  Students were permitted to change stations throughout the the afternoon event. In addition, a quiet space was provided for those wishing to study for exams.

“In my seven years at the school we have not received such a prestigious honor as this award,” Principal Rick Fleming said. “I asked teachers to ensure that their  exam reviews are done, but we also wanted students to have one last meeting with their teachers before exams. Free time is not often presented as an option here. We wanted some time established so students could shoot hoops or jam out or just talk. We took input before planning, and the reason that we are having this party so close to exams is so that we can be focused for the upcoming assessment season.”