A bittersweet sendoff

A bittersweet sendoff Former students say goodbye to Templeton Center School

+ click to enlarge Courtesy photo The Templeton Class of 1941 say goodbye to Templeton Center School on Sunday. TEMPLETON Hundreds of students past and present said farewell to Templeton Cen­ter School on Sunday as the spring weather cooperated nicely for this inspiring and sentimental goodbye to the building. Interim Superintendent Dr. Stephen Hemman welcomed the guests as former Principal Ken Vaidulas shared reflections, including his time spent wearing his legendary velvet vest. Former Templeton Center School students Ella Swanson, Callie Wiedle, James Allread, Emma Lottig and Michael Capps shared memories along with community member Andrea Brooks. Congratulations were offered by state Rep. Susannah Whipps Lee, R-Athol, and state Sen. Anne Gobi, D-Spencer. Incoming Super­inten­dent Dr. Christopher Casavant closed the ceremony by pointing Templeton Center School toward the future. A historic timeline of pictures and events were displayed in school, with current student work adorning the festive outdoor event. The Historical Commission, Narragansett Historical Society and newly formed Parent-Teacher Organization were recognized. Local magician Eddie Raymond provided magic and tricks while children enjoyed bubbles, face-painting and assorted games. Usborne Books provided children’s books for sale. Katie McBrine took photos of the decades, including the first ever class of 1941. Juniper Farms ice cream and The Farm at Baptist Common sold delicious treats. Retired administrative assistant Sandy Kulvete was also in attendance wearing Audrey Hepburn look-alike sunglasses. Longtime custodian Cindy LeBlanc did the setup and cleanup too. Prior to the ceremony, art teacher Megan Burpee created the USS Templeton Center “send-off” ship on the cafeteria wall covered with present student and staff handprints. Current administrative assistant Melanie Murphy designed the commemorative brochure depicting Templeton Center School’s 75th birthday. Current Principal Dr. John Graziano thanked the following Planning Committee members: Ann Blood, Kristine Boudreau, Megan Burpee, Joyce Grucan, Kathie Huhtala, Steve LaFountain, Jessica LeClerc, Adrian Morgan, Heather Niemczura, Liz Syring and Jean Twohey. On Dec. 8, 2015, voters approved the construction of a new elementary school, topping a 28-year campaign. The schoolhouse bell will ring one more time for Templeton Center School on June 14 – it’s last day of school.