The skies were clear, the winds swept through the grasses and leaves, the mountains cradled the fields in the most delicate of spring greens--almost breathing with life--and Hosmer Pond glistened in the sparkling sun. The setting was picture perfect!

And then there were the characters! Eighty-five or so fifth graders in white togas, judges earnest and ready, and an audience filled with good cheer and respect, while the quiet murmur of characteristic of a golf classic filled the air.

The 2017 pentathlon was a tremendous success, a day the athletes are likely to remember for their entire lives. Everyone was well fed, thanks to the unbelievable support of the entire Ashwood community and the hard labor of the fourth and fifth grade parents. Jeremy Clough and Rose Swan led the entire event without a hitch, and the movement and class teachers from each of the other 5 schools worked together as a harmonious whole.

Photo by Doug Mott

To the shoppers and cooks, the cleaners and field tenders, servers (the eighth graders did a fabulous job) and first-aid givers, car parkers and popcorn makers, equipment movers and egg scramblers, the judges and dancers, musicians and game leaders, drivers and chaperones, translators and medal makers, wreath makers and gong makers, the Camden Snowbowl and the Ashwood teachers for lending their classrooms as dormitory spaces, thank you, thank you, thank you to one and all!

Photo by Doug Mott

The pentathlon was yet another example of the goodwill, hard work, and intelligence of this Ashwood community. Once again, I feel so humbled and blessed to be part of this amazing group of people, all ready to serve our incredible children and bring to life these fabulous Waldorf traditions.

What's next, you might ask? Why, of course, our early-childhood bridge crossing, spring revels, and eighth-grade graduation!

- Jody Spanglet
School Director

On Thursday, June 8, at 10:00 a.m., the early-childhood class will welcome in the summer with our traditional bridge crossing ceremony. We begin with a short story, followed by some snippets of our morning circle activities from throughout the seasons of the year.

Then, each child will walk across the beautifully decorated "bridge" into Summerland. The rising first graders will go first, followed by their classmates. After all have crossed, we will gather together for a social time/potluck with finger foods that all our families will bring to share.
 
We have had a wonderful year, and it will be hard to say goodbye to these children who have become so dear to me.
The bridge crossing is planned as an outdoor event, so let's hope for sunny skies to shine down upon us all!

Warmly,
- Ms. Beth
Early-Childhood Teacher

Prepare to celebrate! Our lively end-of-year assembly will be on Friday, June 9, at 10:00 a.m. at the Camden Opera House.

Dropoff will be at the Camden Opera House at 8:30 a.m.  Parents, please bring your children into the Opera House and be sure they are under the care of their class teacher before leaving. Please send a snack along with your children.

This event is a wonderful way to introduce our school to friends and family: all are welcome!

Ashwood will be offering four summer camp sessions this year. You can download a form, or pick one up in the office! SIGNUP DEADLINE IS JUNE 9!

Nature Explorers
for children 4-7 yrs. old, June 26-June 30.
Leader: Rose Swan

Ultimate Frisbee & Archery Camp
for children entering grades 4-8, July 17-21.
Leader: Jeremy Clough

Jump for Joy!
for children entering grades 1-4, July 17-July 21.
Leader: Rose Swan

French Cooking
for children entering grades 2-4 , July 24-July 28.
Leader: Sarah Trapani

The Lost and Found basket is located just to the right of the side door of the grade-school building as soon as you walk in the door. It's piled high with valuable clothing and other gear: come find what you're missing!