The first kindergarten class at Fouse Elementary School in 2002 was invited back for a birthday celebration as they prepare to graduate from high school.
When Fouse Elementary School opened its doors to students in 2002, under somewhat chaotic circumstances, times were different. Original building principal Karen McClellan, now retired from Westerville City Schools, returned for a birthday celebration held on Thursday morning, May 21. Guests of honor were the first kindergarten class, who will graduate from high school tomorrow. McClellan recalled some permitting glitches which didn’t allow occupancy in the school until just hours before the first day. There were also plumbing and mechanical problems to overcome, along with an infestation of mice. None of that mattered, she said, because of how the students, staff and parent volunteers came together to make it work. Current pupils listened intently as McClellan described how there were no I-phones back then, which elicited gasps from the young audience. Also speaking was Principal Robb Stranges. Brave was sung by pupils Kennedy Meador and Kia Smith, and a slideshow of “then and now” photos was presented, much to the delight of the children. Snacks followed, along with the viewing of contents from a time capsule.