Emerson School

Earlier this month, we celebrated the Emerson School Class of 2026 as they graduated from 8th grade and prepared to begin their next chapter.

Throughout their years at Emerson, these students have grown as learners, leaders, creators, teammates, and friends. We are incredibly proud of all they have accomplished and grateful to have been part of their journey.

Congratulations, Class of 2026—we can't wait to see where your path leads next.

One of Emerson’s most cherished traditions, the 8th grade Florida Trip is equal parts adventure, discovery, and celebration. 🌴🐊

This year, students explored the Everglades by airboat, visited the famous Gator Boys, snorkeled through mangrove ecosystems, cruised over Molasses Reef on a glass-bottom boat, and encountered incredible wildlife throughout the Keys and Everglades National Park.

More than just a trip, it’s a capstone experience that brings a year of learning to life while inspiring curiosity, connection, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Ask any Emerson alum about their “Florida Trip”—it’s a memory that lasts a lifetime. 💙

Before the school year came to a close, our 7th graders spent four unforgettable days in Northern Michigan, putting a year of environmental science learning into action. From water quality testing and presenting Stewardship Action Projects to exploring aboard the Schoolship and visiting a fish hatchery, students experienced science beyond the classroom.

Home base for the adventure was Camp Carvela, where students enjoyed campfires, games, lip sync battles, and time together in the woods. They also spent time boating, swimming, and tackling the dunes at Sleeping Bear. It was the perfect way to celebrate a year of learning, adventure, and community.

A week at gave our 6th graders the opportunity to challenge themselves, strengthen friendships, and grow as leaders.

Set along the shores of Lake Michigan, the trip was filled with memorable experiences—from kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and swimming to building shelters, learning outdoor skills, and tackling the high ropes course. Students also gave back by planting white pine trees to help support the camp's environment.

Beyond the activities, the week was about teamwork, resilience, and community. What a wonderful way to close out 6th grade and begin looking ahead to 7th.

For generations of Emerson students, our librarian, Linda, has been the person who helped them fall in love with reading.

Each year, as she shares stories with our Young Fives and Kindergarten students, she marks each book by adding a new piece to a special quilt. Throughout the school year, the quilt grows into a colorful reflection of the stories, characters, and adventures they experienced together.

At the end of the year, one lucky student gets to take the quilt home—but every child leaves with something even more lasting: a deeper love of books and reading.

It's a tradition that beautifully reflects the care, creativity, and dedication Linda has brought to Emerson for more than 30 years.

Before we let out for summer break, our 3rd grade students celebrated a special Emerson tradition: crossing the bridge from Foundation to Bridge. 🌉

Students toured their future classrooms, met teachers, and heard advice from current 4th graders who recently made the same journey. It's an exciting milestone and a wonderful reminder that the next chapter is just around the corner.

Our 1st grade Spanish students recently visited the Young Fives classroom to share the monster stories they have been creating. As they read aloud to their younger peers, they practiced their language skills while stepping into the role of teacher and mentor.

These cross-grade connections are a special part of the Emerson experience. Young Fives students get a glimpse of the exciting learning that lies ahead, while our 1st graders build confidence, leadership skills, and a sense of responsibility as role models.

🎬🎵 Original music. Original films. One unforgettable night. 🎵🎬

Last night, our AMP (Audio Music Production) students shared the results of a year’s worth of creativity, experimentation, and hard work. The evening featured the premiere of original short films that students both produced and soundtracked, giving families a chance to experience their storytelling and technical skills on the big screen.

Guests also explored listening stations showcasing original tracks students have been developing throughout the school year, highlighting the wide range of musical styles and artistic voices within the program.

With students walking the red carpet before the premiere, the event was a fitting celebration of the creativity, collaboration, and dedication that make AMP such a unique part of the Emerson experience.