Fortville Elementary School (FES) and McCordsville Elementary School (MES) recently revved up the excitement by celebrating the Month of May with their annual “Kindy 500” events — a beloved tradition fondly known as the cutest spectacle in racing. New this year was MES’s addition of a “Flashback 500” — a special event for fifth-grade students who missed their Kindy 500 due to the pandemic.

At FES, kindergarteners waved proudly to the cheering crowd of families and staff as they walked in an oval loop outside the school. Each student showcased their decorated cardboard car, reflecting their personality and flair, turning the oval into a colorful parade route. The event focused on joy, community, and celebration — not competition — as students walked as a class, soaking in the support and applause from their loved ones.

MES’s Kindy 500, on the other hand, took the excitement to another level with high-energy racing action! Kindergarten students paraded through the halls high-fiving older classmates before heading outside for the big race. With multiple heats, each class crowned a winner who then competed in a final race for ultimate bragging rights. In a thrilling finish, one speedy kindergartener earned the championship title and was awarded a trophy and jug of milk, just like the pros. 

New this year, MES also hosted the first-ever "Flashback 500" for fifth-grade students who missed out on the event during their kindergarten year due to COVID-19. With nostalgic enthusiasm, these students created cars and relived the tradition they never got to experience. The energy was electric as they celebrated this long-overdue milestone. 

From decorated race cars to proud parents and cheering teachers, both events were filled with smiles, laughter, and memories that will last a lifetime. Congratulations to all of our Kindy 500 and Flashback 500 participants! Your creativity, spirit, and Marauder pride made this year’s events unforgettable.