Schools
Introducing the Class of 2023
It was popsicles instead of Pomp and Circumstance at Orono's kindergarten graduation
Orono kindergarteners and their families gathered to celebrate the end of their first year of elementary school.
The graduates performed songs for proud parents sitting in the bleachers, and Dr. Connie Fladeland, Schumann Elementary principal, read each child’s name as they received their “diplomas.”
After the ceremony, everyone headed to the cafeteria for popsicles.
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Graduate Rylea Denneson says her favorite memories of kindergarten are choice time and going outside. She and her older sister will celebrate the end of the school year by tie-dying shirts at their Maple Plain home.
“We do it every year when school’s out, and we invite all the kids in the neighborhood,” says Rylea.
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Six-year-old Emma Windler got a manicure to celebrate the special day.
“She had a bubble bath and then we went to Red Rooster for dinner before graduation,” says mom, Stephanie.
Graduate Joe Kasner says he thinks first grade will be “fun.” After the ceremony, the Kasners headed home to eat chocolate cake that Joe’s grandma made for the occasion.
The Adair family doesn’t have any particular celebration plans.
“We’re looking forward to taking the boat out to do some fishing when school’s done,” says parent Mike Adair. Son Fletcher is looking forward to summer and predicts that first grade will be “really hard.”
“I’m taking the kids to Valley Fair as a surprise when school’s out,” whispered parent Cynthia Jacobson, who was within earshot of her kindergartener.
Art was the best thing about kindergarten, according to six-year-old Bridget Kringen.
Classmate Georgia Freeman prefers recess.
How will Georgia’s family celebrate?
“Early bedtime!” chuckles her mom.
