Laurel Elementary Marks 100 Years With Renovation and Renewal

Laurel Elementary School (its earlier building shown at left in the 1960s) has occupied the site at Montgomery Street between Fifth and Sixth Streets for a century. Photos: Ken Boyer (left), City of Laurel (right)

One hundred years of school may sound overwhelming to some, but in Laurel, it’s a reason to celebrate. August 26 marked the first day back for students at Laurel Elementary, and this year, we’ve reached a major milestone: a full century of educating our community.

One exciting change this fall is a long-awaited renovation of the school library. For the first time since ... well, since I attended LES back in 1996 ... the space is getting a full refresh. The renovation will include new tile flooring, updated furniture, painted quotes on the tapered ceiling, and hundreds of new books. Construction begins September 23 and is expected to finish by October 4. The school will remain open during that time, as work will be completed in sections to ensure student safety.

While the library space is under construction, I will be visiting classrooms to teach library skills, with an emphasis on digital literacy and computer use. Regular book checkouts are on a brief pause, but media classes will continue without interruption.

People often ask, “What do kids learn in the school library these days?” It’s a great question. In PreK and Kindergarten, we focus on story elements like character, setting, and events. First and second grade students learn basic technology skills such as typing and emailing, along with social lessons about respect and honesty. Third grade students explore the Dewey Decimal System through hands-on activities: 001.9 covers cryptids, 641.5 is cookbooks, and so on. Fourth graders study genre through print, music, and film, while fifth graders combine research skills with social-emotional learning, helping them build emotional awareness and healthy relationships.

More than anything, we want our students to feel safe and to love learning. That’s the foundation of everything we do. This summer, Dr. Rhea Bush, Ms. Martina Avery, Ms. Savannah Jackson, Mrs. Nicole Parks, Ms. Alexis Robertson, and I all participated in professional development focused on creating calm, supportive environments for students navigating academic stress. Laurel’s children deserve our full attention, both caring and firm, and Laurel Elementary is up to the task.

Now in his third year as principal, Mr. Tyrone Harris summed up our mission best: “Through rigorous instruction and targeted support, 100% of our students will reach proficiency in math and reading.” It’s a lofty goal, but a necessary one. Schools are built by people, and our people remain committed to every student, every day.

Allow me to close with the words from our legendary school song. If you know the tune, sing along:

We’re the Laurel Leopards. We’re the best we can be.

Like the Laurel Leopards, you be you; I’ll be me.

Join the celebration of the Laurel education.

Yessiree, feeling free in harmony

Happy 100 years, Laurel Elementary. And here’s to many more.

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Shane Walker is the Media Specialist at Laurel Elementary School. More than a lifetime resident in Laurel, he is a lifetime member of its greater community. As a writer, he focuses on inspiring harmony through diversity of thought.