Grandview Public School celebrates 75 years in New Hamburg
- 3 hours ago
- 2 min read
By Gary West
Hundreds of former students, staff and community members returned to Grandview Public School last week to celebrate the New Hamburg school's 75th anniversary.
The milestone celebration brought together generations of Grandview Tigers, many of whom spent time searching through decades of class photos, reminiscing with old friends and sharing memories of their years at the school.
Built in 1950, Grandview Public School has been a fixture in the community for three-quarters of a century. Class photos and historical displays lined the hallways and classrooms, allowing visitors to revisit the school's history and find familiar faces from years gone by.
Grandview principal Brad Hughes welcomed guests and reflected on the school's legacy.
"Whether this is your first visit to Grandview, or you were among those who first attended our school in September 1950 when Grandview first opened to replace the old school on the hill, you are a vital part of an incredible 75-year legacy," Hughes said.
"As principal here at Grandview, it's my pleasure to welcome you to the 75th-anniversary celebration."
Hughes also acknowledged the traditional territory of the Haudenosaunee, Anishinaabe and Chonnonton peoples before welcoming the Kodaly Singers, directed by Amy Mairs, for the singing of “O’ Canada.”
Reflecting on the school's history, Hughes noted how much has changed over the past seven-and-a-half decades.
"For over seven-and-a-half decades, this building at 341 Huron Pl. has seen a lot of changes. We've seen grades shift, extensions built and fashion choices we might all prefer to forget," he said.
"But through it all, one thing has remained completely untouched. Grandview's reputation as 'the little school with the big heart' is still as true today as it was 75 years ago."
Hughes said the celebration was an opportunity for alumni, retired staff, current students and families to reconnect and celebrate the school's enduring sense of community.
"This day is for you. It's a chance to look at the vintage photos, swap stories about your favourite teachers and reminisce about the moments that shaped us," he said.
Several special guests also offered greetings and congratulations during the event.
In closing, Hughes emphasized the school's strength comes from the people who have passed through its doors over the years.
"Bricks and mortar make a building, but it's your stories, your friendships and your continued support that give Grandview Public School its pulse," he said.
"Seeing you all here today, it is overwhelmingly clear the big heart of this school is beating as strong as ever."
Throughout the evening, familiar conversations could be heard as former classmates reunited.
"I haven't seen you for years," was a common refrain, while others searched the displays saying, "Let's see if we can find our class picture from the '60s."
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