One of the more popular games at the Fairwell Fair held on June 24 at North Stormont Public School was the bouncy horse race. Even the adults took part in the fun. Shown here, left to right are Maria Barzo-Paul; Gayle Poirier; Kathy Hopmans; Kaitie McElheran; Lion Ernie Coumant and Eric Barker. Thompson Goddard Photo

BERWICK – North Stormont Public School held a Fairwell Fair during the evening of Fri., June 24, with staff, students, families, friends, and neighbours gathering to have some fun and acknowledge the role this educational institution has played in the community since it opened in 1965.

“We are celebrating North Stormont Public School, the students, the staff and the families” commented Eric Barker, NSPS principal before wishing everyone a wonderful time throughout the evening. Gayle Poirier, who has worked at NSPS as an office administrator since January 1999, explained planning for the event began several months ago, with the committee deciding on a theme of an old-time country fair. “We wanted it to not be a sad occasion, but rather celebrate the time we’ve shared together here at NSPS” she commented.

The country fair theme was evident to guests from the moment of arrival, with the front of the school decorated in this style, and upon entering the back schoolyard, one could not help but remember the fun of a country fair! People of all ages were busy visiting, sharing memories, enjoying a barbecued hamburger or hot dog, chips, and refreshments. Cotton candy, a staple of the country fair, was being enjoyed, while next door there was a photo booth and in the back section of the large school yard were bouncy games, sack races and other fun activities.

“The NSPS staff and school council would like to thank our local Lion’s Club and Fire department, as well as Tagwi student volunteers for donating their time and allowing us to spend this memorable evening together.” commented Barker in a post event email to The Chesterville Record.

“The township of North Stormont wishes to thank Amy Sanders Michaud and all those who helped in the recent celebration marking the proud history of North Stormont Public School. The school had a proud tradition of engaged staff and strong community support, providing an educational experience that pays dividends every day in our municipality,” said North Stormont Mayor Jim Wert in a recent email to the paper.

For the generations of students and their families who attended NSPS, there will be memories of walking to the Berwick War Memorial on Nov. 11, book fairs, end of year trips, community events and activities, having lots of fun while gaining knowledge from their peers and staff members.

Staff members who worked at the school will remember their time at NSPS with a smile, a full heart, and a sense of thankfulness at being part of such a wonderful school community. The parent-school council has been a big supporter of everyone who attended or worked at NSPS providing hot school lunches, books for the library, sports equipment, and a multitude of other resources for the school through fundraising activities.

When asked about her favourite memories of the time she spent at NSPS, Poirier looked thoughtful before responding how she was unable to pick just one memory but there were so many things that stood out each year, that it was impossible to choose one.

When the doors to North Stormont Public School close for the last time, there will be another door opening at Avonmore Public School for those from NSPS, bringing with them fond memories at their time at the school.