From the Nominator

Milton Hershey School began as a dream and vision shared by chocolate magnate Milton S. Hershey and his wife, Catherine. The Hersheys loved children, but were unable to have their own. Instead, they decided to use their wealth to create a home and school for orphaned boys. They believed education should not have a price, so students pay nothing to go to school here.

Milton Hershey valued loyalty, honesty, respect, and integrity. This commitment still stands today in the form of MHS Sacred Values. They guide the approach to living out Milton Hershey School’s life-changing mission every day. MHS begins each school year reminding its community of these founding principles, brought to life through innovative annual themes.

Milton Hershey School normally starts the first day of school with an Opening of School Assembly. This event is no ordinary school gathering; It is an hour-long celebration that kicks off the theme of the year, and features dynamic musical performances, heartwarming videos of triumph and achievement, and lots of confetti. 

For community safety during the COVID-19 pandemic, the event was shifted to an innovative, virtual format to build goodwill and community during a time in which MHS couldn’t be physically together. The reimagined Opening of School Celebration, themed “Our Future in Focus,” lasted several weeks, and included interactive activities for students and staff to enjoy safely from within their student homes, classrooms, and offices.

From the Judges

We were so impressed by the level of thought and planning that went into the execution of this outstanding event. The multiple virtual activities planned in an effort to pivot from the original in-person event were thorough, varied, fun, and inclusive. You exceeded your goals and objectives, and it shows. Well done!