Schumacher cited the amenities of the new building: Music and art spaces that have been “outfitted for optimum creativity,” the technological innovations in the classrooms and the state-of-the-art playground, “the most universally anticipated experience of our move.”
“Recognize that we will continue with our efforts to educate the whole child through character development and understand our determination to promote independence and interdependence as we prepare our students for success in the global society of the 21st century,” she said. “Look around you. This is the door to the future. This is Crawford Woods.”
Superintendent Janet Baker said, “As a lifelong resident of Hamilton ... the dedication of Crawford Woods has special meaning for me, first of all because it is the last of eight elementary schools to be dedicated, but it also has special meaning to me (remembering) spending my summer vacations swimming at Eastview Pool,” which was once on the site of the new building.
“I’m pleased that much of the beauty of the former site has been preserved because that was very important to us,” she said.
George Jonson, Board of Education president, “This has been a once-in-a-lifetime journey and we owe a great thanks to the citizens of Hamilton. Without you, we would not have been able to do this.”
“I believe we have a product that is second to none,” he said.
Third-graders entertained the audience with songs “We Celebrate America” and “From the Inside Out,” and recited a poem thanking the school board and superintendent for the gift of the new school.
After comments from Rick Swart of the Ohio School Facilities Commission and state Sen. Gary Cates, and a mass ribbon-cutting by selected students and dignitaries, Baker said, “It is my great pleasure to say that Crawford Woods Elementary School is officially dedicated.”
Contact this reporter at (513) 820-2188 or rjones@coxohio.com.
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