Joe Pepin Day is a day when students, staff, and families come together to have a good time. We celebrate Joe Pepin Day in honor of his birthday because he means a great deal to ACE, and a family-style BBQ is just what he would have wanted.
Joe created ACE in 1977, inspiring students and teachers to do their best. He saw a need in the community and worked hard to create a solution: the Alternative Center for Education. Joe was known for enjoying volleyball games at ACE and encouraging students to take healthy risks by getting involved in outdoor adventures like skiing, hiking, camping, canoeing and rafting. Years later, the school’s name was updated to the Alternative Center for Excellence, and over time, the building and the road beside ACE have been dedicated in his honor.
Many families come out to show support and enjoy time with one another. There are tents set up with different activities. Childrens’ activities include face painting, rock painting, sidewalk chalk, and games. The Old Timers Association announced a donation towards the school’s outdoor adventure and white-water rafting trip, and Connecticut Junior Republic showed its support by setting up a table with a trivia game offering candy prizes. There was an alumni table, a merchandise table, and fun activities like volley ball and corn hole.
One thing everyone looks forward to at a picnic is the food. Rob makes all the nice and fresh hot dogs and burgers on the grill, and guests brought side dishes, desserts and fruit that all of us can enjoy. We were worried about the possibility of rain, but the sun came out and everyone enjoyed the special day honoring the founder of ACE.
