by Bea Peterson
On Friday evening, June 14, St. Mary’s Academy in Hoosick Falls held a Prayer Service and Celebration honoring the last students to attend the school, their families and the faculty. At the end of the program each student was called up to ring the school’s bell. In the past this tradition was reserved for SMA graduating students. This year, of course, is different. SMA will close its doors for good the end of June.
The loudness of the bell, fitted on a sturdy frame, startled many of the youngsters as they pulled the cord. It’s no wonder. In 1891 that bell was braced in a tower in the old St. Mary’s Academy at the corner of Classic and High Streets. For 67 years it alerted the whole town and SMA students that school was about to begin. When the school was moved to the “new” building up the street in 1959 there was no bell tower and the ringing of the bell became symbolic. It was a special moment for each student and a link to the school’s long and rich history. Now, after 127 years the bell is silent. In a few weeks the building will be silent. Another indication of changing times.
The event was held in the school gymnasium. There were decorated tables for guests and for food. One table held a cake and luscious cupcakes in the school’s colors. On the walls around the gym were the words that have guided the building’s occupants for years: Peace, Love, Goodness, Faith, Joy, Kindness, Patience, Gentleness, Self-Control and Fruits of the Spirit.
The program had prayers and scripture readings read by students. Fr. Tom quoted Abraham Lincoln at Gettysburg saying people won’t remember what was said here today, but they will remember what they did. He told the students, no matter what, remember that you are all loved. That’s what St. Mary’s is all about. School Principal Amanda Goyer had a box of tissues by her side. She has been at SMA for 12 years as a teacher and then principal. She said she was so thankful for the opportunity to serve SMA. She was grateful for the faculty and staff, for Fr. Tom and the members of the Immaculate Conception Church for their commitment to the school and its students. She told the students, “Thank you for being you. I learn from you every day.” She reminded them, “You matter… and don’t let anyone ever tell you different.”
Two students read their thoughts on “What SMA has done for me and What can I do to honor SMA in my future writings.”
Certificates of Completion and Awards were presented to the students by teachers, Fr. Tom and Ms. Goyer, with hugs and handshakes all around. After the ceremonial ringing of the bell the youngsters posed for a group photo and dinner was served. The significance of the event may have been lost on the 23 PreK students. For the 20 grade 1 – 6 students the impact won’t be felt until they start school in a new place in September. It is also life changing for the staff of 17 that is now in the process of finding new jobs. Ms.Goyer, for one, will become a Grant Administrator for the Catholic School Office.