35 years later: Highcliff finds time capsule from 1990

While preparing the stage for the Drama Club’s upcoming production of "Cinderella… If the Shoe Fits," Highcliff Elementary School made an unexpected discovery — a time capsule from 1990! Originally created by students and staff with plans to open it in 2015, the capsule was finally opened this week, 10 years past its intended date.

The student council had the honor of unlocking the capsule on Wednesday, revealing a fascinating glimpse into life at Highcliff 35 years ago. Each grade contributed to the time capsule:

• Kindergarten: Booklets about Nintendo and hockey
• First Grade: Favorite TV shows and characters, including Bart Simpson
• Second Grade: Writings on popular music, trading cards, and The New Kids on the Block
• Third Grade: A VHS tape showing students tie-dying shirts—then “the latest form of communication technology”
• Fourth Grade: Photos of Highcliff classrooms
• Fifth Grade: Coins, anticipating changes in coin designs
• Sixth Grade: Portraits showcasing the fashions of the 1990s

Students and staff were thrilled to explore the contents, and the time capsule will now be passed from class to class for everyone to enjoy this week.

A special highlight came when fifth grader Kevin B. discovered that his mom had attended Highcliff in second grade when the capsule was sealed. She had co-authored a paragraph about The New Kids on the Block, and Kevin was able to FaceTime with her while reading it.

"I’m sure she never imagined that her fifth-grade son would be reading her words 35 years later!” said Sasha Pesanka, Kevin's teacher.

What a remarkable journey through time — Highcliff’s past and present came together in a moment of discovery, connection, and fun!