On Friday morning, Bernard Hughes Elementary School honored Empire Union School District’s 100th year, celebrated the school’s 35th anniversary and paid tribute to its namesake in recognition of his birth month.
The event, led by Principal Jeri Hamera, was a walk down memory lane as former teachers and principals reminisced about the school’s history, challenges and triumphs since opening its doors in 1989. Superintendent C.W. Smith and school board members Carole Dovichi and Doug Bentley were also present.
When the school first opened, it had only seven teachers. Today, there are 22, with the highest number reaching 28 at one point.
“This campus does not look like it’s 35 years old,” said Rosalie Reberg, a former principal.
One of those original teachers was Gordon Olsson, who made an 11-hour drive from Idaho to attend the event. He expressed his appreciation for the school and how well it has been maintained over the years.
“It brings back a lot of memories,” Olsson said. “The school looks really nice for being 35 years old. I think it’s something we’ve all taken care of.”