Durand Elementary School marked a significant milestone with a joyous two-day celebration commemorating its 50th year last week.
The festivities kicked off on Friday with an exclusive event for students, offering a nostalgic trip down memory lane and a glimpse into the school's rich history. The day started with the opening of the school’s time capsule, which has been “buried” in the wall of the school since 1974. Contents of the capsule included newspaper clippings, photographs, school programs and lunch menus, and several other artifacts from the school’s inception.
The festivities also included a special "meet and greet" session featuring Marie D. Durand, namesake of the school. Students had the unique opportunity to explore a 1970s museum room filled with artifacts from the school's inaugural decade, providing a hands-on experience of the institution's early years. Additionally, an alumni spotlight brought former Durand students Yahira Cuevas and Marilyn Miguel to speak to the upper-level students, who shared their cherished memories from their time at Durand and offered insights into their lives post-graduation.
Saturday marked the grand 50th-anniversary program, open to the public, where the school welcomed a diverse gathering of former students, staff members, and current members of the school community. Principal Dan Greco set the tone with warm welcoming remarks, and the Durand Safety Patrol, under the guidance of advisor Jim Appleby, led the crowd in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. A poignant moment of silence, led by Vice Principal Brittney Tomlin, paid tribute to those who couldn't be present on this special occasion.
The Durand School Select Choir, directed by Julia Rodkey, added a musical touch to the event by singing the Durand School Song. The program featured speeches from three distinguished Durand alumni: Debra Quinn, a lifelong employee of Vineland Public Schools; Nathan Frey, currently serving as the assistant superintendent of the district; and Miguel, a Harvard University graduate and current paralegal in New York City, who shared their unique journeys and accomplishments since their time at Durand.
Guests were treated to refreshments provided by Sodexo, the district's food service provider. The celebration also allowed attendees to explore the school building, featuring displays showcasing the school's history, old yearbooks, and the popular 1970s museum. The event was a heartwarming reunion, highlighting the enduring impact of Durand Elementary School on its community over the past five decades.
Special thank you to the 50th Celebration Committee Members, including committee leaders Janeane Camardo and Katie McManus; Kim Kell and Linda Paladino, alumni historians; the Bortolotti family and San Blas Bakery for providing the cake; Amy and Lynnsie Collins for providing the cookies; Desiree Sheppard of Coldwell Banker for providing the balloon arch; Kenetha Ransome for the stickers; and everyone else who helped make this celebration possible.
VPS Broadcasting was also at the event and the full ceremony, as well as highlights from the celebration, can be found on our YouTube channel here:
Photo galleries can be found here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/10UueBVFY1f6E_p5p08HNcW53jXhmql-q?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/18eEtCoGCfM586kq2DlyITY6lbssmpuJw?usp=sharing
Thank you to Barse principal Joseph Camardo and the staff of Durand School for providing additional photos.