Elmwood Franklin School

This week, our eighth graders crossed the stage of The Johnston Theatre for the last time as students. Please join us in congratulating Elmwood Franklin School’s Class of 2026! No matter where you go or how much time has passed, you will always have a home at EFS.

We were honored to welcome Tricia Barrett ’92 back to campus to deliver this year’s graduation address and inspire the Class of 2026.

Tricia’s connection to EFS spans generations—as a student, Alumni Council co-chair, aunt to two students, sister-in-law of Beginners teacher Martha Wilson Barrett '87, and niece of longtime Head of Lower School Susan Barrett Green ’62. Her enduring involvement is a powerful reminder that EFS is truly a lifelong community.

A graduate of John Carroll University, Tricia joined Crowley Webb in 2003 and, after more than two decades of leadership and innovation, became the agency’s first female CEO in 2024.

Family Ties. A sizable group of alumni is making an Elmwood Franklin education a family tradition. These families are not only shaped by their experiences at the school—they, in turn, help shape the future of Elmwood Franklin.

Among the Class of 2026, four students represent the second or third generation in their families to graduate from EFS.

Andrew Barrett '26 is pictured with his aunt and this year's commencement speaker, Tricia Barrett '92; his brother, Bruce Barrett '28; and his mother and Beginners teacher, Martha Wilson Barrett '87.

Grace Duddy '26 is pictured with her grandmother, Betsy Swift Mitchell '65, and her mother, Sarah Mitchell Duddy '90.

Cameron Kresse '26 is pictured with family members (left to right): Helen Ladds Marlette '73, Devon Parker Marlette '67, Parker Kresse '25, William Kresse '29, Melissa Marlette Kresse '92, Carolyn Potts Sullivan '83, and Karr Parker Marlette '98.

Grace Smith '26 is pictured with family members (left to right): David O. Smith, Jr. '56, Bim M. Bowen, Jr. '62, Alexandra Smith '19, Andrew Smith '85, Jane Morris '62, and Mary Diebold Smith '60.

Prep and Lower School students ended the year on a high note at Friday’s Closing Program! We wish our families a safe, relaxing, and joy-filled summer recess.

During today's Class Day program, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Aquino, and Ms. Beckwith announced this year's Blue-Gray Competition winner. For the second year in a row, the Blue Team came out on top. Congratulations to Blue Team captains Cameron '26 and Stella '26!

The Blue-Gray Competition has been going strong for more than 75 years and remains a highlight of our students' experience, thanks in large part to the camaraderie it fosters. Through Blue-Gray, the students become a part of something bigger than themselves—a team that transcends grades and generations, creating bonds that extend far beyond the competition.

At this year's Class Day, Head of Upper School Annie LoTempio presented the Caty Butsch '21 Shining Light Award to eighth grader Cameron Kresse '26.

This special award honors the memory of Caty W. Butsch, Class of 2021, whose kind heart, creative spirit, and joyful presence left a lasting impact on the Elmwood Franklin community. It is a tribute to Caty's enduring light and a reminder of how one person's impact can continue to inspire others for generations to come.

Nominated by her peers and selected by the Upper School faculty, Cameron reflects the very best of what our community strives to be. Congratulations, Cam!

"You have a deal!" Our budding fourth-grade entrepreneurs took on the challenge of creating innovative products and services, developing business plans, and pitching to potential investors—all while building skills in business, finance, collaboration, and public speaking. This week, they entered the Shark Tank and presented their ideas to a panel of investors!

As is tradition every year, eighth graders shared their yearbook acknowledgments and dedications with the school community after unveiling this year's yearbook.

This year, the Class of 2026 dedicated the yearbook to Mrs. Kim Partyka, whose kindness, patience, and welcoming spirit make a difference in the lives of students, families, and faculty alike. From greeting everyone with a smile to helping students find confidence during morning announcements, Mrs. Partyka embodies the heart of EFS.

The eighth graders also recognized Mr. Devin for his hard work and dedication behind the scenes. Whether maintaining our spaces, making repairs, or ensuring our campus is safe and welcoming, his efforts help our school thrive each and every day.

In addition, we gave special recognition to Ms. Mariann Miller, who is retiring after 23½ years of service to Elmwood Franklin School. Her unwavering commitment, institutional knowledge, and care for our community have left a lasting mark on EFS.

Step into the Hall of Heroes Museum! Our eighth graders welcomed students and faculty to explore their museum exhibits, showcasing both well-known and lesser-known heroes throughout history. These exhibits were the culmination of their English and History final projects, highlighting their research, creativity, collaboration, and presentation skills.