When noon struck on Tuesday, school bells rang at elementary schools all over the Island announcing that summer vacation had officially begun.
The half-day dismissal brought celebrations and reflections from students, teachers and parents alike. Some were nervous about transitions, others thrilled for the end of homework and the start of beach time.
The last day of school on the Island finally arrived Monday, with a half-day dismissal signaling the official start of summer for Vineyard students.
On the last day of school around the Island, students and teachers of all ages and sizes greeted their newfound freedom with cheers, smiles, tears.