The Latest
Giving Tuesday is a vital part of Erie Day School’s year-end fundraising, helping us secure the resources needed to support our teachers and enrich our students’ learning experiences. As an independent school, EDS relies on community support to bridge the gap between tuition and the full cost of providing a transformative, experiential education. Tuition alone does not cover everything it takes to empower young voices and nurture curious minds in a dynamic, supportive environment.
With the funds raised on Giving Tuesday, we are able to equip our teachers with the tools and resources they need to offer hands-on, engaging learning opportunities throughout the school year. Your generosity ensures we can sustain programs and enhancements—from classroom tool to field trips—that reflect our mission and philosophy, providing students with meaningful experiences that go beyond traditional education. By contributing to Giving Tuesday, you’re directly supporting the dedicated educators at Erie Day School and investing in a community that values curiosity, kindness, and resilience.
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The Students
Each year, Erie Day School’s Bags of Gratitude project brings together our students in a meaningful celebration of compassion and community spirit. In this cherished event, early childhood students team up with their lower and middle school “buddies” to prepare care bags filled with essential food and hygiene items. Together, they learn the importance of service and empathy as they create bags to be delivered to local homeless shelters, just in time for the holiday season.
The Bags of Gratitude event is held on the same day as our school-wide Thanksgiving Feast, another long-standing tradition where all EDS students share a meal together in the Henry E. Fish Gymnasium. This day is a celebration of community and gratitude, instilling values of kindness and generosity in each child. By pairing these activities, we create an experience that fosters friendships, builds community, and inspires students to make a positive impact, upholding Erie Day School’s legacy of giving back.
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Thank you to McDonald’s on Peninsula Drive in Erie, PA, for your generous financial support, and to our EDS families for contributing their time and resources. Your support truly makes a difference! | | | |
The Campus
We are thrilled to announce the creation of The Thomas Vicary Gallery, located inside the Griffith Lobby, made possible through a generous gift from the Vicary Family Foundation in loving memory of Thomas Vicary (1941–2018). A proud alumnus of Erie Day School, Thomas deeply cherished his time here, and his legacy lives on through his impactful service as President of the Board of Trustees.
Over the past few weeks, contractors have worked diligently to transform this space, installing drywall, upgrading lighting, and making thoughtful modifications to ensure the gallery seamlessly integrates into the school’s daily activities. Once completed, The Thomas Vicary Gallery will stand as a lasting tribute to Thomas Vicary and his family’s enduring connection to Erie Day School.
We invite you to visit the gallery this spring during two exciting events on campus: the EDS Playhouse production of Shrek, Jr. and The Auction at Erie Day School.
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The Teachers
Mrs. Allison Whitworth, Erie Day School's physical education teacher, has expanded her role to develop an AV Club, providing a unique opportunity for middle school students to engage in media production. Open to all middle schoolers, this club encourages students to create, record, and edit their own content. They take on various roles—conducting interviews, capturing events, and producing a semi-monthly “Breaking News” segment that highlights school activities, celebrates birthdays, and showcases both students and teachers.
Mrs. Allison Whitworth joined Erie Day School as a full-time teacher last school year, having previously served as a substitute here. Originally from Ontario, Canada, Allison spends most of the year in Erie while her husband is the Assistant Coach of the Erie Otters Hockey Team. Her warmth, energy, and commitment to our students have been a wonderful addition to EDS, and we’re thrilled to have her as part of our community year-round!
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The Alumni
Last month, Erie Day School students performed for their grandparents and special friends in a heartwarming celebration filled with Beatles inspired music, laughter, and cherished memories. This special annual tradition not only brings joy to our students and their guests but also allows us to honor the bonds that make Erie Day School such a unique and thriving community.
Among our guests this year were several alumni who have returned to EDS as grandparents, including Peter Zurn, Susie Zurn Hays, and Paul Proper, with Heidi Zurn Williams also in attendance. Their presence embodies the lasting legacy that alumni and their families continue to build here.
As our students performed songs and shared their talents with family and friends, they also witnessed the strength of a supportive community that spans generations. These moments demonstrate the profound impact of alumni who continue to believe in Erie Day School’s mission and invest in its future by supporting and celebrating with the next generation.
Do you have exciting EDS alumni news to share? To have your story featured in "The Spartan" send information to ckaten@eriedayschool.com
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The Auction at Erie Day School
Erie Day School is excited to present The Auction at Erie Day School: Boots & Bling on Saturday, April 5, 2025! Saddle up for a Western-inspired evening filled with good friends, one-of-a-kind auction items, delicious food, and lively entertainment that'll have you kicking up your boots all night long!
At Erie Day School, we are committed to providing a well-rounded educational experience that challenges and inspires every student. By contributing to Boots & Bling, you’ll play a vital role in ensuring that our students continue to develop the confidence, knowledge, and self-discipline needed for a bright future.
For more information about The Auction at Erie Day School, contact Christina Katen at ckaten@eriedayschool.com or stay updated HERE.
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Save The Date
Fri., March 28th & Sat., March 29th: EDS Playhouse Production
Shrek, Jr.
Saturday, April 5th: The Auction at Erie Day School
Boots & Bling
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Erie Day School
Spirit Store
Looking for a way to show your Erie Day School pride? Our Spirit Store has everything from cozy hoodies and performance tees to stylish hats, water bottles, blankets, and even tie-dye items. Whether you're a Spartan fan, a proud alumnus, or a family member looking for a perfect gifts, you'll find dedicated sections just for you. Ten percent of all sales from the Spirit Store are donated back to Erie Day School Parent Group and support events like Field Day, Teacher Appreciation Week, Founder's Day Ice Cream Social and more.
Shop Now!
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Erie Day School Recognition Tree
Erie Day School offers a unique opportunity for families to etch their legacy into the institution's history by purchasing a leaf for our Recognition Tree. Crafted by local artist Adam Stempka of Stempka Designs, this custom piece invites families to honor or remember a student, teacher, philanthropist, or special person or family with a laser-engraved birch leaf. The tree is located on the exterior wall at the Griffith Lobby entrance patio.
Purchase a Leaf
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