Celebrating the Class of 2026: Sunrise and Rapids

Launching the year with senior class traditions.

Eagle Hill School’s seniors began their final year at EHS with two cherished traditions: whitewater rafting in Maine and gathering for the Senior Sunrise. These moments, equal parts adventure and reflection, offered the Class of 2026 the chance to deepen connections with one another and set the tone for a meaningful year ahead.

Whitewater on the Kennebec

On Friday, September 19, the senior class and faculty traveled north to West Forks, Maine, to Crab Apple White Water—a trip Eagle Hill has made for over twenty years. Seniors launched onto the Kennebec River on a high-water day, when the hydroelectric dam’s release of 8,000 cubic feet per second raised the river’s levels and transformed the already challenging Class III rapids into roaring Class IV and V waves.

With expert guides steering each raft, seniors took on towering waves like “Big Mama” and braved the nine-foot plunge at “Magic Falls.” The ride demanded trust, teamwork, and courage, and our seniors rose to the challenge with determination and laughter.

After four hours on the river, students enjoyed lunch and some downtime before continuing their weekend adventure. The group hiked to Moxie Falls, one of Maine’s tallest waterfalls, and spent time relaxing individually or in small groups. Their trip also included dinner, pool time, and an overnight stay before heading back to campus at the end of the weekend—tired, happy, and full of new memories.

Through it all, the Class of 2026 embodied Eagle Hill’s Core Values:

• Honesty – depending on one another in unpredictable waters
• Respect – appreciating the beauty and power of nature
• Kindness – lifting each other up through thrills and spills
• Purpose – embracing challenge, adventure, and growth

Sunrise Reflections

The week continued with another senior tradition: the Senior Sunrise. While this event is typically held at the end of the school year, this year we decided to kick off the senior year by symbolically scheduling it at the beginning of their journey. The Class of 2026 will conclude their senior year with another Senior Sunset at graduation.

On the crisp morning of Friday, September 26, seniors gathered with Head of School Erin Wynne to watch the sun break over campus. Conversations, shared smiles, and countless photos marked the occasion before the group headed to Ms. Wynne’s home for breakfast—a warm start to a busy day of academics and activities.

A Year of Traditions and Memories

From conquering the Kennebec’s rapids to welcoming the sunrise, the Class of 2026 has already begun writing its story of courage, camaraderie, and celebration. As the year unfolds, we look forward to seeing these seniors create lasting memories and uphold Eagle Hill’s traditions with pride.