Robert Frost School celebrates 50th birthday
There is a humorous saying about celebrating a 50th birthday: "Remember how exciting it was to turn 5? You should be 10 times that excited to turn 50."
Current and former students and their families, current and former staff, District 59 board members, and the entire community celebrated Robert Frost Elementary School's 50th birthday May 28.
The celebration, which began at 5 p.m. and was kicked off by current principal Jessica McCormick, included a large variety of festivities.
Boy and Girl Scout troop members started the event with a flag ceremony, former principal Tom Seaton presented "Frost: Then and Now," and students performed songs and poems for the large group of attendees who came to celebrate.
Guests were then able to walk the hallways at their leisure to view a variety of student presentations, displays and artwork that included culture, events, trivia, highlights and history of the last 50 years.
All throughout the school's rooms, students spoke to visitors about everything from landing on the moon to introductions of cartoons. Students showed creativity and excitement in their presentations, using everything from Chromebooks to crayons to cover the changes that have occurred in the last 50 years.
In addition to the students' presentations, artwork, photos and videos throughout the school documented the school's rich history and the many students who attended the school.
Many former teachers and former students stopped in, including Mount Prospect Crime Prevention Officer Greg Sill.
"It was simply amazing to be able to thank those teachers who guided and supported me through my years at Robert Frost," Sill said. "It was long overdue, and I am the person I am today, in the profession I am in today, because of these wonderful teachers."
Refreshments were served, including five birthday cakes, and many pastries donated by Jarosch's Bakery. Other activities included a Robert Frost spirit wear T-shirt sale, arts and crafts activities, live music and a raffle.
"It is exciting to participate in an event where many generations come together to share information, reminisce and learn from each other," McCormick said. "This is a memory that I hope our students, staff and community will be happy to remember for many years to come."
Elk Grove Township Elementary District 59 Superintendent Art Fessler agreed. "It was quite thrilling to see multiple generations of current and former students, staff and families celebrate the 50-year anniversary of Robert Frost Elementary School. The PTO, Frost families, school staff and school administrators planned a fabulous event."
The event was a true display of the bonds that can be forged and nurtured at the elementary school level.
"To be able to give back to the community and the schools who have given me so much throughout my life is phenomenal," Sill said.
"The connection shared with the students at Robert Frost allows walls to be broken down faster and stronger bonds to be formed between students and 'Officer Friendly' when I come and visit to discuss safety and police officers with them."