The Grove Newsletter
May 19, 2026
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ABIGAIL DANKWERTH
AMAYA SHARP
AMBER WANEK
AVA SCOTT
BECKETT NEWTON
Celebrating the Class of 2026. Senior Spotlight + Senior Voices. Vol I
Senior Spotlight: Celebrating the Class of 2026
In the coming weeks, The Grove will proudly shine a light on our graduating Class of 2026.
Every senior’s journey at Groves has been uniquely their own, filled with growth, resilience, self-discovery, and moments that helped shape who they are becoming. Along the way, these students have learned not only academic skills but also how to understand themselves as learners, advocate for what they need, and move forward with confidence in who they are and what they can achieve.
Their stories are powerful reminders of what can happen when students are met with the right support, encouragement, and belief in their potential.
Senior families, keep an eye on our Family Facebook page, where each student spotlight will also be shared as a special way to celebrate!
We invite our entire community to join us in celebrating the Class of 2026, their journeys, accomplishments, and bright futures.
ABIGAIL DANKWERTH
Next Step: Brandeis University
What an honor it has been to watch Abbey grow into one of the kindest and hardest-working students to walk the halls of Groves. During her time in the Upper School, we’ve seen her confidence flourish both in and out of the classroom. This fall, she will attend Brandeis University, where we know she will continue to thrive and pursue her goals with determination and heart. Congratulations, Abbey, on all you have accomplished. We are so proud of you!
In her Senior Speech, Colors, Abbey reflected on identity, healing, and learning to let herself be fully seen for who she truly is:
“There is so much love and laughter in the world that can be found when you search for it. And there will always be people in my life who will love me for me, and that I don’t need to use the color pink to cover up who I really am.”
AMAYA SHARP
Next Step: Augsburg University
During her time at Groves, Amaya has stood out as a creative thinker whose humor and kind heart bring warmth and insight to every class discussion. Congratulations and best wishes to Groves senior Amaya Sharp as she begins her next chapter at Augsburg University!
In her Senior Speech, Now or Never, Amaya described how friendship and acceptance slowly helped her step back into herself.
“I exaggerated my personality because if I didn’t, I wouldn’t have been able to start over… Then Amber saw me and gestured for me to sit with her… and I came out of my shell for good this time.”
AMBER WANEK
Next Step: Northwestern College
A dedicated member of the Groves trap shooting team, Amber also gives her time outside of school to serving her community. This fall, she plans to attend Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa, to pursue her dream of becoming a physician assistant. Congratulations, Amber! We wish you all the very best as you begin this exciting next chapter.
In her Senior Speech, Somewhere Only I Know, Amber reflected on the years-long journey of discovering confidence and self-understanding:
“Throughout my time at Groves, I found my true self. The one that slowly started to come out in 2nd grade. Then again in 8th grade. And finally, my full self in 11th grade.”
AVA SCOTT
Next Step: Community College
Ava is dedicated to doing her best. It is always a pleasure to converse with Ava about her many interests or her busy work life. Ava will attend Community College in the fall to pursue her next chapter. Congrats, Ava; we wish you all the best in your future endeavors!
In her Senior Speech, Learning Differently, Growing Fully, Ava reflected on the friendships, teachers, and experiences that helped her feel supported and understood during her time at Groves, and how those connections shaped her self-understanding and independence:
“After talking to my parents and touring around the school, I knew this school was for me.”
“Work study was great because I could leave school early and work for two hours while also gaining skills like time management and memorization.”
BECKETT NEWTON
Next Step: Normandale Community College
Whether he’s making us laugh with his quick wit or impressing us with his talent on stage, Beckett continues to stand out as a determined and passionate young man. This fall, Beckett will attend Normandale Community College as he pursues his goals and dreams for the future. We wish you all the best, Beckett, in this exciting next chapter!
In his Senior Speech, Welcome to the After: A Somewhat Cynical Curtain Call, Beckett shares how theatre, music, and the people around him helped carry him through some of the hardest moments of his school experience:
“I had to consciously tell myself, ‘You don’t need to be perfect.’”
“I have had a lot of fun with theater at Groves. I’ve had a wide variety of roles.”
Join Us for the Groves Academy End-of-Year Parent Meeting
Join us for the Groves Academy End-of-Year Parent Meeting as we celebrate an incredible year of connection, community, and unforgettable moments together.
Date: Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Time: 8:30–10:30 AM
Location: Groves Academy | Large Conference Room
Whether you’ve been involved for years or are simply curious to learn more, we’d love to welcome you. There are many ways to support the Groves community, big or small, and this is a great opportunity to connect with other parents and discover how you can get involved.
A few splendiferous moments from this year’s Groves Spring Musical, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.
From hilarious one-liners to heartfelt performances, our students filled the stage with personality, resilience, and joy. Thank you to everyone who supported this production and celebrated the courage it takes to step into the spotlight.
