"What good is the warmth of summer, without the cold of winter to give it sweetness."

 — John Steinbeck (from Travels With Charley: In Search of America)

Last Chapel Info

A reminder: Last Chapel will take place tomorrow (Friday, June 5) at 8:30 a.m. in Alumni Gym. After the event, seniors will remain for Commencement rehearsal.

Commencement Info for Seniors

Commencement will take place Saturday, June 6, at 9:30 a.m. on the front lawn of Main Campus. Graduating seniors will meet in the CFA’s O’Toole Lobby at 8:45 a.m. The ceremony will last until approximately 11:30 a.m. The event is first-come, first-served in terms of guest seating; additional seating will be available in the CFA's Hale Theater where the ceremony will be livestreamed for those who prefer to sit indoors. An email with complete details was recently sent to senior families. 

A College Counseling Message for the Class of 2027

Attention, rising seniors and their parents/guardians: Watch your email and residential mailbox for the summer mailing from the Pulsifer College Counseling Center. It provides guidance and directives for the summer months as well as expectations for the fall. 

Summer Reading Info
Click here to find the summer reading list for Upper School students; be sure to click the "Upper School Reading" tab.

‘Exploring Summer Opportunities’ Workshops — Slide Decks

The Global Engagement Program and the Pulsifer College Counseling Center recently co-hosted the second “Exploring Summer Opportunities” workshop for Upper School students. The focus of the workshop was to help students explore resources for finding and applying to summer volunteer and job opportunities. To view the slide deck from this presentation, click here. Please note: More will be added to this slide deck as additional summer job and volunteer opportunities arise.

Summer Reading Info
While vacation has only just started, it's never too early to get a jump on that summer reading. Click here for more information including requirements and recommendations. Be sure to click the "Middle School Reading" tab.

Thanks for an Incredible Year

As this school year comes to a close, TAPA extends its heartfelt thanks to all Thayer parents and guardians for their dedication, energy, and partnership. Your presence — whether at events or behind the scenes — has strengthened our community and enriched our students’ experience. Your support made a real difference, and we are deeply grateful for the time and care you invested.

TAPA hopes you’ll continue this journey next year. Together, we can build on this year’s momentum and create even more meaningful opportunities for our children. TAPA wishes you a restful and joyful summer and looks forward to welcoming you back in the fall with renewed enthusiasm.

TAPA Board for Next Year

Congratulations to the TAPA Executive Board for the 2026-27 school year. Board members include: 

President: Caroline Kuhlman P ’25, ’28

Vice President: Rebecca Baker P ’28

Secretary: Sara Torok P ’30

Treasurer: Sandi Petrie P ’30, ’30

Middle School President: Kate Herbst ’98 P ’31

Middle School Vice President: Maribeth Flakes P ’32

Middle School Secretary: Lisa Kazakis P ‘31, ’32

Engagement & Belonging Co-Coordinator: Dasan Harrington P ’27

Engagement & Belonging Co-Coordinator: Ophelia Ardayfio P ’27, ’30, ’33

Volunteer Co-Coordinator: Laura Query P ’29, ’31

Volunteer Co-Coordinator: Amanda Smallwood P ’29, ’31

Parent Athletics Council (PAC) Representative: Kate Bingham P ’27

Communications Co-Coordinator: Jen McGuirl P ’26, ’29, ’30

Communications Co-Coordinator: Ashley Flowers P ’33

POC Affinity Group End-Of-Year Gathering Is June 8

There will be an end-of-year gathering of the Parents of Color Affinity Group on Monday, June 8, at 4:30 p.m. in the Bakker Reading Room of Southworth Library.

The event will begin with a conversation featuring school leaders, affinity group chairs/co-chairs, and TAPA Engagement & Belonging coordinators followed by a casual social gathering with drinks and appetizers at The Tree restaurant in Braintree.

Organizers hope affinity group members will join in as participants reflect on the year, strengthen connections, and continue building community together. Click here to RSVP.

Getting Ready for Homecoming 2026 

Calling all parents and guardians! It’s hard to believe the school year is already winding down, which means it’s time to start gearing up for Homecoming 2026. Homecoming is TAPA’s biggest community‑building event of the year, and it takes a dedicated team to bring it to life. We’re hoping we can count on your support.

If you’re interested in being part of the planning committee, please reach out to Homecoming Chair Megan Butow P ’29. Your time, ideas, and enthusiasm make all the difference. We’d love to have you join us!

Calling All Parents & Guardians: Be a Part of the Action!

TAPA is calling on parents and guardians to step up and shine! Lead exciting events, serve on the TAPA Executive Board, and share your creativity and school spirit. It’s a wonderful way to inspire our community, build lasting friendships, and make unforgettable memories — while having a great time!

Please contact TAPA President Caroline Kuhlman P ’25, ’28 for more info.