Photo courtesy of Michelle Olson.
Greystone Elementary School is preparing to celebrate its 25th year this month.
Greystone Elementary School opened its doors to students in 1994 after holding the first semester at Rocky Ridge Elementary until the school building was ready. An additional wing was added to the school in 2002 to accommodate the influx of students as the school’s population grew.
The school has had four principals during its 25 year history: Dr. Marilyn Left, Dr. Maurine Black, Dr. Kathleen Wheaton and Dr. Stacey Stocks. Stocks is currently in her seventh year at Greystone Elementary and her third year as principal. Since she joined the staff, the school has built a new playground, a Maker Space and added a pre-K class.
The school’s mission states: “As a school community, we empower learners, inspire leaders, and encourage all children to reach their potential." These goals have been met year after year, and the school is no stranger to awards and achievements.
“Greystone students have always performed well academically,” Stocks said. “There have been awards given to teachers, such as state Teacher of the Year finalists. The school has also been recognized by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation with various awards.”
On Oct. 6, the school will host a 25th anniversary celebration from 3-4:30 p.m. Stocks will give a speech and honor staff members who have been there since the school opened.
A “passport” activity will allow visitors to get stamps as they travel through the school learning the history. The event will also include light refreshments, face painting and games for kids.
“We will have cheerleaders, the Dazzlers dance team, Hoover Belles, Spain Park sports team representatives [and] Jaggy our mascot will be coming,” PTA President Michelle Olson said.
The PTA have been busy preparing for the celebration, which includes the Leave a Legacy fundraising campaign that will begin Oct. 7. Bricks that will be placed around the flagpole can be purchased in honor of students past and present, staff and those with a connection to the school.
“This will be a fundraiser for the school, but it will also be a special place that leads into our school for all that enter to see,” Olson said.
Stocks is grateful to the families and staff that work with students to reach their potential, in and outside of school.
“When someone new walks in our school and comments about how welcoming and happy our school feels, I know that we are doing something right,” Stocks said.
To continue the school’s growth and achievements, a house program is being introduced this year. In these house groups, students, faculty and staff can get better connected to the school and each other.
“We want all students to develop friendships beyond their classroom or grade and to have close relationships with many adults in our building,” Stocks said. “When students feel connected, they will be more invested in their entire educational program.”
Stocks has high hopes and goals for the future that benefit not only the students, but the community as well.
“I see our school continuing to thrive as we try new innovative ideas and continue to find ways to help children meet their potential,” Stocks said. “We will continue to partner with our community to enhance the quality of life for everyone. I hope that we will continue to grow our pre-K program, as well as continue to see growth in our student population.”
