On a beautiful Friday afternoon, staff, students, and community members at Putney Central School came together to prepare the cafeteria and lawn for the 2nd annual Moonfest. This event celebrates the waning crescent moon while raising funds for the 5th grade class’s annual trip to Camp Keewaydin.

Tables were arranged both indoors and outdoors, allowing guests to dine under the stars amidst colorful lanterns, fresh flowers, and twinkling lights hung by volunteers. Office Administrator Nancy Smith shared insights into the event's origins, which trace back to the community lantern fest, where attendees would decorate their own lanterns. Year after year, it served as an annual back-to-school tradition and a way to witness families and students grow over time. In past years, funds collected were used to help support the PCS Farm to School program.

This updated version continues to attract over 300 community members each year, embodying the values of PCS and the greater Putney community. This year, the menu included burritos with a variety of proteins, sides, and fixings, as well as a tomato, avocado, and corn salad provided by the Putney Food Coop, and an array of delicious desserts contributed by community members. Steve Hed, Putney Central’s Food Services Director, and the kitchen staff led the food preparation. Funds raised from the dinner help offset the costs for the entire 5th grade to spend a week at Camp Keewaydin. Established in 1910, Keewaydin is one of the most venerable camps in the country and has long been at the forefront of the American camping movement. Keewaydin is a camp located on Lake Dunmore in Salisbury, VT, that offers the KEEC program, which stands for Keewaydin Environmental Education Center. This program provides students with hands-on, experiential learning opportunities. All aspects of the camp emphasize community, with students participating in two investigations each day, including topics focused on natural science, local history, and human impact.

We wish the 5th grade class a wonderful time on this important educational experience and express our admiration for the community's commitment to ensuring unique opportunities for students are maintained year after year.