Published for the Arts Based School Community
May 28, 2026
Happy Last Day of School-Early Dismissal today
- K-4 dismisses at 11:45
- 5-8 dismisses at 12pm
Celebrating Our 8th Grade Graduates: A New Chapter Begins
As the school year comes to a close, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to our 8th-grade students as they prepare to begin their next adventure. Graduation is always a meaningful milestone at The Arts Based School—a time to celebrate growth, creativity, friendship, and all that our students have accomplished during their years at ABS.
This year’s ceremony was especially meaningful as we welcomed back ABS alum Duncan MacMillan as our commencement speaker. Returning to the same stage where he once performed as a student, Duncan shared reflections on creativity, growth, and embracing the unknown. One of the most memorable parts of his message was his encouragement to students to keep creating—even when the work feels messy or imperfect. He reminded students that failure is not something to fear, but an important part of learning and growth, encouraging them to try new things, stay curious, and keep their creative voices alive. His message was thoughtful, funny, and inspiring—and a wonderful gift to this year’s graduates.
We are grateful to Duncan for returning to ABS to celebrate this milestone with our students and families.
As our graduates move on to high school, we know each will take a unique path. Some journeys will be bold, some quiet, some winding—but each their own. We look forward to seeing how they continue to grow, create, and contribute in the years ahead.
To the ABS Class of 2026: Carry with you the friendships you’ve built, the lessons you’ve learned, and the creativity that has been nurtured here. We are proud of who you are and excited for all that lies ahead.
Congratulations, graduates!
You can catch Duncan performing at Muddy Creek Cafe at Old Salem, Friday, May 29. More details and tickets here
Congratulations, graduates!
Duncan MacMillan graduation speech.pdf
Student Survey Results
Each year, we conduct a student survey (grades 2-8) to gauge our success from our students’ perspectives. We also use these results to understand what’s working and what’s not working as well as we’d like. See results here.
End of Year Checklist
- Pick up medications from the front office.
- Be sure all fees and lunch balances are paid.
- Let us know if you will not be returning to ABS next year. If your child is transferring to another school, please let us know where to send your child’s records by emailing Director Hollis [email protected]
Around Town…
The Paperhand Puppet concert with Salem Band has been rescheduled to Tuesday, June 2, from 7:30–9:00 PM at Salem Square (649 S Main St). This free, family-friendly event is a magical experience featuring giant handmade puppets, live music, and imaginative storytelling in the heart of Salem. The evening will include music from Encanto, Fiddler on the Roof, and Pirates of the Caribbean, along with jazz, swing, marches, Greensleeves, and more. Come early for a special Tuba Quartet performance beginning at 6:45 PM.
Ways to get involved and learn more about ABS:
- Follow us on Social Media
- Catch up on Thursday Notes you may have missed
- Explore the ABS website
- Make sure we have best contact information so that you receive all communications