NEW Kilby Elementary School in Woodbridge warmly welcomed and dedicated

The Kilby Elementary Singers were unrestrained in their excitement about being on stage and performing for dignitaries at the school’s ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony on May 23. The students were endearing and enthusiastic as only young children can be. They also gave the biggest cheers as the treasured memory of their “walk-over” from their old building was shared with all on the large screens in the expansive new gym.

Elected officials, staff, students, and nearly 300 families joined Superintendent Steve Walts to officially rededicate the school. The bright, spacious, and colorful building replaces the old school that opened on the same site in 1959, some 56 years ago.

Dean Kilby and his family were among those enjoying the event, as were former teachers and students. The original school, named Marumsco Elementary, was renamed for R. Dean Kilby in 1970. Kilby served as principal there from 1959 to 1969.

Staff and students moved into the new Kilby Elementary School almost three months ago. One final remaining wall of the old building fell under the bulldozer’s might just the day before the ribbon-cutting. After the debris is removed, construction on parking spaces and a new playground will begin.

“We are still getting used to all the space,” said Principal Amy Jordan. “There are two gyms, a main one and an auxiliary gym, which means that students can have recess indoors when it rains. The library is huge compared to the old one.”

Murals cover every inch of the walls in the library, and many visitors were spellbound by the witty and colorful graphics. Tigers, the school mascot, are represented throughout the school.

“Everyone loves the school. It is beautiful, cheerful, with lots of windows, a volunteer room, music room, and a lab for science,” added Jordan.

As the end of school nears, Jordan and her staff are focused on summer programs for students to prevent the summer slide children often have. Learning will continue for a month in the summer for current students, and begin for rising kindergartners who have not attended preschool. Students will be eager and ready to learn on the first day of school, and teachers will be ready to teach, nurture, and encourage their students. Jordan expects to welcome about 750 students in the coming year, almost double the current enrollment.