There were hugs and smiles on Thursday as the school year drew to a close in Marion.

This year, poor weather pushed the last day of school back by about a week due to cancelled days, but some students were sad to say goodbye.

"I don't want to leave!" one child said after exiting Sippican School through the front doors.

For Principal Lyn Rivet, it wasn't the end of school; it was time to begin planning for the fall.

"We are definitely looking forward to next year," she said.

On Spring Street, crossing guard Dick Jardin helped families safely navigate the street and directed traffic.

Many drivers stopped briefly to thank Jardin for his work throughout the year. One student, Brendan Burke, ran up to Jardin to hand him a thank you card.

Jardin, who has been the school's crossing guard for three years, had words of encouragement for students: "Enjoy your summer!"