Pennington’s parent association, Parents for Pennington (PfP), organizes and facilitates many celebratory programs each spring for the graduating senior class, and they create wonderful and welcoming opportunities for incoming students and their families to come together as the Pennington community’s newest members. In only its second year, PfP’s “New Family Ice Cream Social” featured warm greetings alongside the cool scoops of assorted ice cream flavors and toppings, all provided by nearby Uncle Ed’s Creamery of Pennington.  

“The idea of an ice cream social was born last year to help new Pennington students feel connected to each other and the School,” explained incoming PfP President Karin Sanderson. “A fresh start at a new school can be intimidating, and, together with the admission office, PfP wanted to help new students ease into their new experience.”

Director of Admission and Financial Aid Sharon Jarboe echoed that sentiment in her welcoming remarks to the families gathered under the tent last Thursday on O’Hanlon Green. “You’re already friends with all of us here in Admission,” said Jarboe, “but now that you’re in, there’s a whole bunch of other people who can’t wait to meet you and welcome you to Pennington!” Among the friendly faces were student ambassadors, faculty members, and staff, as well as Robert E. Martini Associate Head of School Chad Bridges. 

According to Sanderson, the response was incredibly positive, with 65 students checking the YES! box on the RSVP; both the Middle and Upper Schools were equally represented among the attendees. Incoming students played an icebreaker game that required them to find other new families in their grade, meet PfP board members, and connect with current students in order to complete the card. Upon successful completion, the cards could be entered into a drawing for a basket of Pennington-themed gear. Two lucky winners were chosen: one from the Upper School and one from the Middle School.

Also thanks to PfP, no one walked away empty-handed: every attendee received an ice cream scoop with the trademark Pennington “P” proudly emblazoned on the handle and some colorful sprinkles with which to commemorate the day. Reflecting on the success of the event, Sanderson said, “There were smiles and conversations all around, and many Instagram handles shared. It was a wonderful afternoon to build community.”