The Greenbrier County Board of Education joined the staff, students, and families of Crichton Elementary School in a special ribbon cutting ceremony on Oct. 11 to celebrate completion of extensive health and safety upgrades to the school.
“This is an amazing school that brings great pride to our school system and this community. These facility upgrades have not only greatly enhanced the safety and security of our students and staff, they’ve also significantly improved the learning environment at the school,” stated superintendent Jeff Bryant. “In my interactions with Crichton Elementary’s students, teachers, parents, principal and community members, it is evident that this school is built on a foundation that all stakeholders are valued and loved. Crichton Elementary School is much more than a school. It is like home,” continued Bryant.
Crichton Elementary shined as the school’s doors were open to the community for student-led tours and a reception following the official ribbon cutting ceremony. The outdoor ceremony, led by school principal Stephania Meadows, featured presentations by alumnus Beverly Painter; school board president Jeanie Wyatt; and Superintendent Jeff Bryant. Cub Scout Pack No. 95 members Johnathan Painter and Chase Spencer posted the flag and led those gathered in The Pledge of Allegiance. The school choir, led by Erica Vaughan and Andrea Bostic, sang two selections.
“Our school is a very important place to our students and our community. We truly appreciate the secured entryways and new doors, roof, windows and HVAC system made possible through this renovation project. Crichton Elementary has always been a great place to learn and now it’s also a safer and more comfortable place to learn,” said school principal Stephania Meadows.
A Major Improvement Program (MIP) grant from the West Virginia School Building Authority in the amount of $900,000 was combined with a local match of approximately $100,00 to make possible renovation of the school’s entryway and administrative office area; replacement of windows throughout the main building; HVAC installation; and electrical service upgrades.
“We are so proud of this project which began almost three years ago when we requested for funding from the School Building Authority. We are happy beyond words to have made these improvements and to provide a safe place for our students and staff here at Crichton Elementary School,” said school board president, Jeanie Wyatt.
