The first three classes of Oak Glen High School, 1964,1965 and 1966, gathered Saturday night. Actually, it was officially the Class of 64’s Reunion and they graciously invited the next two classes to join them. Can it have been 60 years since we took those steps into this new concept of consolidated education? And, just to make the experience as challenging as possible, the new school wasn’t even complete when the new school year rolled around so we were sent to the old Chester High School for 1/2 day the first semester. When we got to the new school, it was January and we sat on folding chairs (desks hadn’t arrived) and walked on planks to get between buildings. We learned to battle the elements, stop our complaining and widen our horizons. Most of us had attended school with the same kids since 1st grade and now we were supposed to make NEW friends and do something a lot of us had never done: adapt to new surroundings. But hey, it was the Sixties and the world was changing, so we changed, too. There was a lot of talk about the past memories of Oak Glen Saturday night and it was sad as we remembered classmates who had already left us. But, it was hopeful as well. I admire the Board of Education who had the vision to consolidate the three schools. While I didn’t have a lot of pride in Oak Glen when I found out I was leaving New Cumberland to attend this new school, I sure do now!

In the very near future, I anticipate the current Board of Education will vote to put a levy before voters. Once it is passed by the Board, Hometown News will publish all the items the Board wants to fund, many of which involve school safety. I urge you to support the levy. We have a strong Board of Education and committed leaders in our school system. It’s vital Hancock County schools continue to move forward. The Classes of 1964, 1965 and 1966 would expect no less!