Halloween is just around the corner, but unfortunately, the big costume party had to be canceled this year. But of course, masks, social distancing, and other precautions aren’t stopping the Steinmühl students from enjoying a spookily fun boarding school weekend. So the teachers put together a COVID-safe program for the weekend that gave the students plenty of reasons to get the creeps.

Creative Pumpkins Carved by Hand

Of course, the classic pumpkin carving activity was a must. Inside the tent, the large pumpkins were hollowed out and carved using professional tools until, in the end, seven glowing, spooky faces adorned the entrance to the dining hall. Everything was carved, from the Cheshire Cat from *Alice in Wonderland* to the face from *The Nightmare Before Christmas* to the classic grim expressions. Sprayed with varnish, these handmade pumpkins will last until October 31.

A Full Halloween Lineup: Scary Movies, a Nighttime Walk, and More

And while the older students tried not to throw their popcorn into the air in fright as they watched a scary movie that evening in the dining hall—which had been set up to comply with COVID-19 guidelines—the younger students shuddered during their nighttime walk. Ten intrepid Steinmühl students ventured out with two teachers on a tour through the Cappeler Forest—a test of courage, of course, included. Fortunately, everyone arrived home safe and sound after surviving the terrors of the dark forest.

The horrors of the forest were brought directly to the students’ cell phones and tablets through the digital game “Among Us.” The objective of the game: to unmask the sinister enemy “among us” in the fictional space colony in order to save the community. Thrills and fun are guaranteed here as players work to uncover the traitor in their own ranks. This digital reimagining of the classic Werewolf game was a hit with many students and continued to be played even beyond the extracurricular club sessions, right into the dorm groups.

For those who preferred something a little more low-key: a cozy, spine-tingling experience with storytime and puzzles

Those who preferred a more laid-back atmosphere could gather in the gym for “Trick or Treat,” where, while maintaining a safe distance and by candlelight, they could listen to someone read from *Harry Potter*. The more active, unconventional thinkers among the students were invited to take part in “Black Stories”: Two men died at the same time, simply because they wanted to get some fresh air. What had happened? This and other mysteries were solved together.

The biggest mystery for the residents of Steinmühle right now, however, is whether and when a big activity weekend will be able to take place again. But thanks to the creativity of the educators, it will never get boring here, no matter what.

Farewell Ceremony for High School Seniors and high school graduates against a cinematic Hollywood backdrop

On June 20, the big day had finally arrived. After 13 years of school and the rigors of the Abitur exams, which took place under very unusual circumstances, the “school” chapter finally came to an equally special end for the class of 2020. After it had long seemed as though SARS-CoV-2 would ensure a quiet and subdued farewell—after all, the school’s graduation parade, the school’s graduation ball, and all other festivities had to be canceled—it was all the more delightful that an in-house graduation ball could be organized on the boarding school’s own sports field. Not only did this ensure compliance with social distancing rules, but it also provided the setting for a farewell ceremony that our graduating seniors undoubtedly deserved.

What began weeks ago as a stopgap measure ultimately turned out to be an absolute stroke of luck and a unique event that will remain an unforgettable memory for all guests, all high school graduates, and the entire teaching staff at Steinmühle.

An elaborate production

Right from the start, the guests were treated to a sight that left many of them in awe. The flawless planning (thanks once again to Luise Schneider and Celina Traser) and the incredibly thoughtful and elaborate staging by Edeltraud Buurman created breathtaking impressions even before the evening had officially begun.

Under the open sky, nestled in the beautiful natural surroundings on the outskirts of Marburg and with the setting sun casting its glow over the treetops of the adjacent forest, the guests were treated to a backdrop that felt more like the set of a Hollywood movie than a high school prom. With pleasant summer temperatures, the atmosphere that emerged could not have been better planned and more than lived up to the occasion.

Graduation Ceremony for the High School Seniors

Inspired by this unique setting, the guests enjoyed pleasant conversations while savoring the culinary delights of the barbecue buffet prepared by our kitchen team, sipping the occasional cool drink, and taking in the evening’s program—which had been planned by our “Abis.” In addition to the young ladies’ grand entrance in ball gowns, musical performances, and the equally skillful and humorous hosting by our “Abis,” the official send-off for the graduating class was the highlight of the evening.

When, in true “” style and in keeping with the school’s tradition, each high school graduate was bid farewell with a personalized tribute—some very funny, some very emotional—that captured the wonderful memories that had been created over the course of so many years, and it wasn’t just the graduates who shed a few tears.

On the banks of the Lahn, all the participants celebrated and danced to the music of a DJ well into the early hours of the morning, when the prom finally came to an end.

Thank you very much for your support

In closing, we would like to thank everyone who contributed to the success of this evening: Without the dedication of Edeltraut Buurman, Till Buurman, the entire kitchen team, and the many volunteers, this wonderful finale would not have been possible.

One last time, the entire teaching staff at Steinmühle Boarding School would like to thank our graduating seniors. Not just for this evening, but also for all the wonderful moments that led up to it and that we’ve shared together over the past few years. Good luck on whatever paths may lie ahead of you. Take care—and see you at next year’s Fall Festival. We’re looking forward to it…!