Murfreesboro, TN - In Murfreesboro, Tennessee, the end-of-school-year tradition at Mitchell-Neilson Schools soared once again Thursday morning (5/29/2025) as rising first graders took part in the ceremonial “Crossing of Jones Boulevard.” The 13-year celebration was aided with the help of wildly cheering school officials, parents, and Murfreesboro Police, who stopped all traffic on Jones Boulevard, so the students could safely cross the thoroughfare.  Mitchell-Neilson Primary serves kindergarten through first-grade, and Michell-Neilson Elementary is second through sixth grade.

This beloved tradition, was established in 2012 by Principal Robin Newell and her staff. One teacher said, “It’s more than just a short walk—it’s a milestone. 

As young students step into their next chapter of schooling, they were met with cheers from their new peers, teachers, and proud parents. To solidify their newfound status, they received school shirts, igniting their Eagle pride—after all, their mascot is an eagle, and these rising second graders are ready to spread their wings!

With summer break ahead, reports suggest that “the students who crossed Jones” will spend the next two months buzzing with excitement, eagerly awaiting the fall semester. Murfreesboro City Schools reopen on Thursday, August 8, 2025. Until then, these newly minted elementary students have time to enjoy their summer and gear up for “grown-up school.”

Happy flying, new eagles!