TSA’s school year is woven with meaningful traditions that foster community, celebrate student voice, and mark the passage of time together. From the first days of orientation to heartfelt graduation speeches, each tradition helps create the vibrant culture of our school.
September
Start-of-Year Orientation & Community Potluck
Each August, all Middle and High School students return for orientation days full of community-building activities, reconnection, and joyful preparation for the year ahead. Families, students, and staff gather for our annual Community Potluck & BBQ to kick off the new year together.
Throughout the Year
All-School Meeting
Each week, TSA holds a student-led All-School Meeting (ASM) that brings Middle and High School students, teachers, and staff together for about 30 minutes to share announcements, celebrate successes, and raise concerns. Run by student leaders (often the Student Representatives to the Board), ASM keeps the community informed about events and opportunities, invites anyone to speak, and channels issues to Student Government or faculty as needed—building student voice, citizenship, and shared community life.
Thursday Night Café (TNC)
Held each quarter in October, December, March, and June, TNC is our long-standing open mic night and talent show. Hosted by student emcees, these evenings are full of music, comedy, creativity, and community support.
In the Fall
Annual School Hikes
In early fall, both the Middle and High School head out for annual hiking trips that connect students to Vermont and New Hampshire’s natural beauty. High Schoolers hike in Billings Rockefeller National Park, while Middle Schoolers climb Mount Cardigan, where they also participate in a science lesson at the summit.
Winter Fun
Chain Reaction Day
Each January, TSA honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy with a full day of workshops, guest speakers, and reflection. Topics range from equity and justice to media literacy and global health. It’s a day of action and deep learning rooted in our mission to develop thoughtful, engaged citizens.
Thursday Night Café (TNC)
February brings the student-organized Winter Carnival for High Schoolers, with outdoor activities like snow sculpture building, sledding, relay races, crafts, and hot cocoa—a joyful celebration of Vermont’s snowy season.
Spring is in the Air
Career Day
Each spring, community members, professionals, and alumni come to TSA to lead workshops and small group sessions for students in grades 7–12. It’s a day of exploration, networking, and imagining future pathways beyond high school.
Prom at TSA
Prom is open to all High School students and is a uniquely TSA celebration of creativity, community, and fun—organized each spring by students themselves.
Celebrating the End of the Year
Senior Celebrations
In their final months, seniors embark on a meaningful hike up Mt. Moosilauke, co-led by faculty, and design a “Senior Prank & Thank,” transforming the school with a theme and leaving a lasting gift—like murals or handmade furniture. Before graduation, faculty host a reflective and celebratory Senior Dinner, filled with stories, laughter, and connection.
Field Day & End-of-Year Trips
In June, TSA marks the school year’s end with adventure and play. High Schoolers head out on a final field trip—past destinations include Boston and whitewater rafting—while 8th graders enjoy a special celebration of their own. On the last day of school, Field Day brings everyone together for music, games, and a final BBQ.
Graduation Speeches
At both 8th and 12th grade graduations, each student delivers a personal speech. These heartfelt reflections showcase individual journeys and the spirit of our community. No two speeches are alike, but all are honest, meaningful, and uniquely TSA.
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