PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla., June 2, 2026 — PVPV Rawlings Elementary School is celebrating two student traditions centered around community, connection and school pride.

This week, students, teachers, staff and families gathered for the school’s annual Fifth-Grade Clap-Out as fifth-grade students walked the halls one last time before graduating elementary school on May 28 and preparing for middle school.

Earlier this month, graduating seniors from Ponte Vedra High School returned to PVPV Rawlings, many revisiting the elementary school they once attended as young students, for a similar clap-out celebration ahead of high school graduation.

Together, the traditions reflect the lasting connections formed between students, families and educators throughout each stage of their academic journey.

“Our entire school celebrated our amazing fifth graders by clapping and cheering loudly as they walked through the halls one last time as elementary school students,” said Principal Jill Hillier. “Watching them smile, high-five younger students and hug their former teachers filled us all with pride. We are so excited to see all the incredible things this graduating class will accomplish in the future. Work hard, be kind and be awesome sea turtles!”

Today’s fifth-grade students will one day have the opportunity to return to these same halls again as the Ponte Vedra High School Class of 2033.