The Year of Maple Sugaring

  • Posted October 30, 2025
Four students looking down a maple sap bucket next to a tree on the Moharimet woods.

Principal David Goldsmith is pleased to share that Moharimet School students kicked off their “Year of Maple Sugaring” program in September when University of New Hampshire (UNH) Retired Professor of Forestry Don Quigley visited the school to teach students how to identify maple trees. The presentation was followed by an activity in the school’s woods so students could practice their leaves and bark identification skills.

On October 17, students experienced a school-wide assembly to introduce each grade level to the maple trees they will tap this winter. Kindergarten classes each have specific trees, and grades 1 to 4 have a group of trees which they tap collectively.

In the afternoon, students were invited to a nature journaling activity where they observed and drew their trees. Students will participate in two more nature journaling activities this year to investigate how their maple trees change throughout the seasons. In the process, they will also learn how to be better stewards of their trees throughout the year. When sugaring season starts in the spring, they will tap their trees and collect sap for sugaring.

Students participate in an enrichment program every year. Each annual theme is focused on a single important topic. Previous “Year Of” programs include journeys, water, forest, art, and farming. Each program focuses on experiential learning with hands-on activities.

“Each year, our school celebrates a special theme, and this year we are excited to announce the Year of Maple Sugaring,” said Principal Goldsmith. Maple sugaring is a beloved Moharimet tradition, which has deep roots in our school community’s history. From science and storytelling to hands-on experiences in the forest, our students and staff are eager to pour this sweet tradition into every part of the curriculum.”

Moharimet students, staff, and volunteers collect between 800 and 1,200 gallons annually for maple syrup production. The school’s maple syrup is served during the school’s annual Pancake Breakfast celebration. The remaining syrup is sold to fund school programs and activities.

Principal Goldsmith and Music Teacher Mrs. Stuthers singing along with students during the assembly.

On October 17, Moharimet students of all grade levels participated in a school-wide assembly in the gym.

Principal Goldsmith showing students where their classroom trees are on a map during the assembly.

Principal Goldsmith showed a map identifying where each classroom’s sugaring trees are located.