Prize Day

Sixth formers in their boaters and graduation suits and dresses pose for a group photograph

On Prize Day, family, friends, and the entire Groton community come together to celebrate a graduating form's achievements and wish them well for the future.

In addition to words from the headmaster and president of the Board of Trustees, each form selects a student representative to deliver remarks, and a keynote speaker shares their thoughts as well. Finally, prizes for outstanding achievement and diplomas are awarded, and the form exits the Circle as alumni, marking the transition with a final round of handshakes with faculty members.

Prize Day 2025

Friday, May 30th

8:00 a.m. No Chapel

8:35 a.m. Sixth Formers pack and clean rooms
Regular day of classes for Second through Fifth Forms

1:00 p.m. Sixth Formers are invited to the Webb Marshall Room for a dessert and to receive their charm or graduation tie

4:10 p.m. Choir rehearsal

5:00 p.m. Baccalaureate Chapel for students and faculty only

6:30–10:00 p.m. Unscheduled time, free for graduates and their families

Saturday, May 31st

12:30 p.m. Choir rehearsal

1:30 p.m. Sixth Form meeting with the Associate Head and Deans, Prize Day rehearsal—Chapel

5:30 p.m. Reception for the Sixth Form, their families, and faculty—Headmaster's House

This reception kicks off the Prize Day festivities.

6:30 p.m. Form singing, awards, and announcement of form officers—Prize Day tent on the Circle

This event includes all Upper and Lower School students and faculty, as well as Sixth Formers and their families. Various awards will be announced, and Fifth Formers will serenade Sixth Formers in Groton’s traditional form singing.

7:30 p.m.–9:00 p.m. Dinner for the Sixth Form, their families, and faculty—Tent on the Circle

11:00 p.m. Curfew – ALL students return to their dormitories (no extended curfew)

Sunday, June 1st

8:30 a.m. Sixth Formers pick up rosettes—Front of the Chapel

8:50 a.m. Sixth Form photo (in Prize Day dress)—Chapel Garth

A form photo will be taken by Panfoto. To purchase this photo, visit Panfoto’s website.

9:10 a.m. Choir rehearsal

10:00 a.m. Prize Day Chapel service for Sixth Formers and their immediate families—Chapel

Each graduate may invite three guests to the Chapel service. Additional guests should find seating under the tent in preparation for Prize Day Exercises.

10:30 a.m. Prize Day Exercises—Prize Day tent on the Circle (unlimited seating for families and guests)

12:30 p.m. Lunch for Sixth Formers and their families—Tent on the Circle

1:30 p.m. Handshaking on the Circle

A Groton tradition! The faculty line up in front of the Chapel to shake hands with Sixth Formers, who then receive handshakes and congratulations from the Second through Fifth Formers. While handshaking may last until late afternoon, it is a unique and memorable part of Prize Day.

Helpful Hints about Prize Day

Reserving Lodging
You’ll find many Groton area lodging and dining options here. Please call to be sure businesses are open.

Invitations
Families will receive formal Prize Day invitations in the mail in mid-April. For guests unable to attend Prize Day, we will be livestreaming the ceremony.

Photography
A photographer will capture students receiving their diplomas and other photos throughout the day. A few days after Prize Day, you may download high-resolution photos from Groton School’s Flickr account.

Prize Day Dress
Traditional Prize Day dress includes white dresses, white pantsuits, or white shirts worn with white dress pants, navy blue blazers, and graduate ties. Sixth Formers who choose to wear the traditional boater hat may purchase one through the school store. Before Prize Day, Sixth Formers will receive a gold Groton charm or a graduate tie.

Livestreaming
A link to the Prize Day livestream will be available here. The video also will be available afterward.

Accessible Seating
Accessible seating is available. However, if you have specific concerns or would like more information about accessibility on campus, please contact Manager of Events & Public Programs M onica Rodriguez.

Parking
Building and Grounds staffers will help guide visitors to parking. Guests who have accessibility needs or concerns may contact Monica Rodriguez.

Celebrating students in white dresses and navy suits throw up their hats in celebration

A student celebrates with his graduation certificate

Click here to view photos of Prize Day 2025.

Questions? Please contact Monica Rodriguez, Manager of Events & Public Programs, at mrodriguez@groton.org or 978-448-7222.

Click here for our Visitor's Guide.

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