Bordewich-Bray to celebrate history, look to future

As president of the school board, Bob Crowell has a stake in the future of Bordewich-Bray Elementary School.

But his dedication to the school goes much deeper.

"I shot marbles there," he said during a recent forum when asked about the school's playground. "I'm very concerned."

The elementary school, which has served as both a middle school and high school since its construction in 1965, is facing an uncertain future.

To draw attention to the school's plight, a "Legacy of Bordewich" luncheon and open house is planned Friday at Bordewich-Bray Elementary School.

After three types of toxic mold were discovered in the school's five portable buildings last school year, the buildings were demolished over the summer.

Classes and programs taught in the modular buildings were relocated to any available space inside the school, including large utility closets.

Students returned to school this year to find their library, music room and English-as-a-second-language classes inside the Brewery Arts Center across the street.

Principal Sue Keema said the students and staff are adjusting to the new situation, but it's a temporary fix.

School officials are asking voters to approve a $3.75 million bond in this year's election to finance a 20,000 square-foot addition to the school to replace the lost portables.

School administrators and parent volunteers are working together to organize history celebration at the school to showcase the school's rich history and drum up support for its future.

"Bordewich-Bray has always had a relationship with the community," Keema said. "We want to continually increase that bond."

The celebration will coincide with the school's annual jogathon fund-raiser at the Carson Middle School track.

After the jogathon, the Lyon's Club will host a luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. state Sen. Mark Amodei and former Bordewich-Bray principal of 17 years Kirk Kinne will speak during the luncheon.

Both men attended the school as youths.

Members of the community, especially those who attended Bordewich, are invited to attend.

From 3 to 7 p.m., historical displays will be set up and the school will be open to the public.

IF YOU GO

What: Legacy of Bordewich luncheon and open house

Where: Bordewich-Bray Elementary School

When: Luncheon: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday

Open House: 3 to 7 p.m. Friday