ROCKPORT — The Riley School is holding a retirement celebration and fundraiser in honor of the Head of School, Rebecca (Becky) Greenleaf Clapp, who has dedicated 35 years of service to the Riley School and the children of Midcoast Maine. 

“Becky will be retiring at the end of this academic year, leaving behind a legacy of educational excellence, administrative resilience, and heartfelt commitment,” said The Riley School, in a news release. “Throughout her tenure, Becky has been instrumental in shaping the Riley School into the nurturing and innovative learning environment it is today. Becky’s journey with Riley School began in the Development Office and evolved into roles where she has championed progressive education and fostered a community of lifelong learners, first as a facilitator and then as our Head of School after the passing of the school’s founder, Glenna Plaisted. Carrying on the late founder’s vision of progressive education, Becky’s unwavering dedication, leadership, and deep care for each child has profoundly impacted countless lives.

To honor Clapp’s contributions, the Riley School will be hosting a retirement celebration fundraiser on Saturday, June 22, from 2 - 6 p.m., on the Riley School campus, at 73 Warrenton Street, Rockport. This family friendly event will be an opportunity for current and former Riley children, parents, faculty, friends, and community members to come together and celebrate Clapp’s remarkable career. The fundraiser aims to support the school’s Children’s Fund, ensuring that Greenleaf Clapp’s legacy continues to inspire and support future generations of children.

“Becky Clapp’s dedication to the Riley School has been nothing short of inspirational,” said Whitney Oppersdorff, Chair of the Riley School Board. “Her steadfast leadership guided the school through significant challenges after our founder’s passing, improved all our policies and procedures, and furthered the school’s mission to trust in children as learners. We are excited to celebrate her remarkable career and ensure that her impact is felt for years to come.” 

The event will feature croquet and other lawn games, hors d’oeuvres, music, silent auction, and a program highlighting Clapp’s achievements and the mark she has left on the community. Attendees will have the opportunity to share their memories, express their gratitude, and contribute to the scholarship fund.

Tickets for the event are available for purchase on the Riley School’s website www.rileyschool.org. Donations to the Children’s Fund can be made directly online.

“We invite everyone in the community to join us in honoring Becky and ensuring that her legacy of educational excellence continues to thrive,” said the release.

For more information about the event or to purchase tickets, please visit www.rileyschool.org/retirement.

About the Riley School 

Founded in 1972, the Riley School is a progressive educational institution located in Rockport, Maine. Committed to fostering creativity, critical thinking, and a love for learning, the Riley School provides a nurturing environment where students can thrive both academically and personally. For more information, visit www.rileyschool.org.